POLYPROPYLENE MICROPLASTIC-DEGRADING BACTERIA IN AQUATIC AREAS: A REVIEW
Dewi Aisyah Chandra Kirana(a), Engki A. Kisnarti(b)

(a)Student in the Bachelor of Oceanography Study Program, Faculty of Engineering and Marine Science, Hang Tuah University
(b)Department of Oceanography, Faculty of Engineering and Marine Science, Hang Tuah University, Surabaya
email: aisyah.ose20[at]hangtuah.ac.id

Abstract

The problem of plastic waste in water areas is a complex global issue. Plastic waste degrades into microplastics (MP) in the environment, especially in water areas. The type of plastic often found in water areas is polypropylene, such as food packaging, water bottles, and other consumer products. However, when polypropylene degrades, it can release microplastic particles into the environment. This study aimed to determine the types of bacteria that degrade polypropylene microplastics in water areas. The studied water areas include lakes, rivers, estuaries, seas, bays and straits. The results showed that some polypropylene microplastic degrading bacteria belonged to various bacterial groups, including Pseudomonas, Bacillus, Rhodococcus, and Streptomyces. Bacteria-degrading polypropylene microplastics have a wide range of morphologies that vary depending on the type of bacteria and the study area. Polypropylene microplastic degrading bacteria produce enzymes that can break the polymer bonds of polypropylene. These bacteria then use the results of polypropylene degradation as a carbon source for their growth.

Keywords: degradation- bacteria- polypropylene

Topic: Marine Hazard, and Coastal Protection