WAKO, Japan – In a significant breakthrough for environmental sustainability, Japanese researchers have developed a new type of plastic that dissolves in seawater within hours. This innovation could provide a much-needed solution to the growing global crisis of plastic pollution, which endangers marine life and ecosystems.
The research team from the RIKEN Center for Emergent Matter Science and the University of Tokyo showcased their invention in a lab in Wako city near Tokyo. During a demonstration, a small piece of the plastic vanished in a container of salt water after being stirred for about an hour.
While biodegradable plastics have been under development for years, this newly created material stands out by breaking down rapidly and leaving no residual trace.
Project lead Takuzo Aida emphasized the importance of environmental responsibility, saying:
“Children cannot choose the planet they will live on. It is our duty as scientists to ensure that we leave them with best possible environment.”
The material is designed to retain the strength of traditional petroleum-based plastics but degrades into its original components upon exposure to salt. These components are then easily broken down by naturally occurring bacteria, preventing the formation of harmful microplastics.
Aida noted that since salt is also found in soil, the plastic can disintegrate on land as well—taking approximately 200 hours for a 5-centimetre piece to break down.
Importantly, the plastic is non-toxic, non-flammable, and carbon dioxide-free. It can be used like regular plastic when appropriately coated, and the researchers are currently studying optimal coating methods.
Although commercialisation plans have not been revealed yet, the innovation has already garnered significant interest, particularly from the packaging industry.
This development comes amid global efforts to combat plastic pollution. According to the UN Environment Programme, plastic waste in oceans is expected to triple by 2040, with 23–37 million metric tons of new waste entering the sea each year.
As scientists around the world race to tackle the crisis, innovations like this could play a pivotal role. The announcement also aligns with global environmental awareness efforts such as World Environment Day, observed on June 5.