Re:Microbes in cow stomachs can break down plastic
by heurisko on Sunday July 04, 2021 @06:55AM
(#27728726)
I am inclined to prefer the scenario where plastic is more readily decomposed, rather the situation where we are in now, where plastic is entering the food chain and organisms, including ourselves.
Other than climate change, I think plastic pollution is the issue of our time.
Re:Microbes in cow stomachs can break down plastic
by Dyac on Sunday July 04, 2021 @04:49AM
(#27728191)
This is a fiction book about the aftermath of an oil spill, developing enzymes to digest the hydrocarbons and how it all then gets a bit out of control..
Re:Microbes in cow stomachs can break down plastic
by AlchemistCamp on Sunday July 04, 2021 @08:54AM
(#27729274)
Sounds like on of Neal Stephenson's books: https://www.nealstephenson.com/zodiac.html
Re:Microbes in cow stomachs can break down plastic
by kwhitefoot on Sunday July 04, 2021 @05:37AM
(#27728393)
Reminds me of Doomwatch:The Plastic Eaters, from 1970.
Re:Microbes in cow stomachs can break down plastic
by AtlasBarfed on Sunday July 04, 2021 @02:02PM
(#27731456)
OR more dramatically, good ole ICE-9 from Cat's Cradle
Yet. The results might not be that great for humanity either. Especially if the bacteria get, shall we say, overly eager and efficient?... and plentiful.
That said, there's plenty of obscure bacteria having a decent stab at the problem and having a good time. Humans are helping them along as well.
Like all decently powerful tools there's a possibility for harm and hope.