Using fungi to recycle plastic, especially in water, is an emerging area of research with significant potential. Certain fungi have been found to possess enzymes capable of breaking down plastics, particularly types like polyurethane and PET (polyethylene terephthalate), into simpler, non-toxic components.

When these fungi are introduced to water bodies containing plastic waste, they can colonize the plastic surfaces and slowly degrade them. This process is environmentally friendly and could offer a sustainable solution to the massive problem of plastic pollution in oceans and other water bodies.

The key lies in isolating and optimizing fungi that are efficient at breaking down plastics. Research in this area is still ongoing, with scientists exploring different strains of fungi, environmental conditions, and ways to enhance the breakdown process to make it more viable for large-scale use.

Would you like to know more about how this process works or the specific fungi involved?