Gujarat’s 1600 km coastline can be potential source for an environment friendly alternative to plastic. Scientists at Bhuj based GUIDE (Gujarat Institute of Desert Ecology) have succeeded making ‘bio-plastic’ from certain bacteria strains found in mangroves. Gujarat has a mangrove cover of 3600 sq km spread in 13 coastal districts, the second highest in India. According to forest department data, mangrove cover in the state has increased from 911 sq km in 2001 to 3600 sq km in 2017.
Eco-friendly polymer is made from bacteria found in the mud flats where mangroves grow. The polymer film made from this bacteria is completely biodegradable and has immense industrial use, thus eliminating the need for conventional plastic. After a series of experiments, a thin film of bio-polymer is developed which can easily replace plastic in the future. The bacteria named halotolerant microbial endophytes is found in the mud of mangrove plants and these can be multiplied several times in the laboratory ( for commercial use).
Bio-plastic is a bio-polymer; biodegradable and closest to plastics. These are naturally found in bacteria, yeast and genetically modified plants. These bio-polymers can be used for encapsulation of medicine for controlled release.
Matter referenced:
Times of India, Ahmedabad, Sunday, 15th October, 2019.
By: Dr. Bhawana Asnani.
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