waste management – mycolab.ai

Harnessing and Degradation Mechanism of Persistent Polyethylene Waste by Newly Isolated Bacteria from Waxworm and Termite Gut Symbionts

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Researchers discovered that bacteria living in the guts of waxworms and termites can effectively break down plastic waste, particularly low-density polyethylene (LDPE) commonly found in plastic bags and packaging. Two bacterial strains—Bacillus cereus from waxworms and Pseudomonas aeruginosa from termites—were tested for their ability to degrade LDPE. The Bacillus cereus strain proved more effective, breaking down nearly 20% of the plastic over 45 days by forming biofilms and using enzyme-producing capabilities. These findings suggest a promising biological approach to managing plastic pollution that could complement traditional recycling methods.

Potential environmental impact of mycelium composites on African communities

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Scientists studied how mushroom-based building blocks made from agricultural waste affect the environment in Africa. They found these eco-friendly materials can be better for the planet than concrete if produced with renewable energy like solar power or firewood. The biggest environmental cost comes from the energy used in growing and drying the mushroom composites, so using cleaner energy sources could make them much more sustainable.

Toxicity Assessment and Bioremediation of Deep Eutectic Solvents by Haloferax mediterranei: A Step toward Sustainable Circular Chemistry

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This research demonstrates that a salt-loving microorganism called Haloferax mediterranei can safely tolerate and even metabolize certain eco-friendly solvents known as deep eutectic solvents (DESs). These solvents are promoted as green alternatives to toxic chemicals, but their safety wasn’t well understood. The study found that this hardy microorganism can use some components of these solvents as food sources, suggesting it could help clean up waste containing these chemicals in an environmentally friendly way.

Comprehensive review on oyster mushroom species (Agaricomycetes): Morphology, nutrition, cultivation and future aspects

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Oyster mushrooms are increasingly popular edible fungi that can be grown on agricultural waste materials like rice and wheat straw. These nutritious mushrooms are rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals while containing compounds with health benefits including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Their cultivation offers an environmentally friendly solution to waste management while producing highly nutritious food that could help address global food security challenges.

Impact of bottom ash addition on Pleurotus ostreatus cultivation on coffee ground substrate

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Researchers studied how to grow oyster mushrooms using leftover coffee grounds mixed with coal ash as a growing medium. They found that adding small amounts of coal ash (1-5%) to coffee grounds actually improved the mushroom quality by reducing harmful heavy metals while keeping beneficial nutrients like phosphorus and zinc. This discovery suggests a promising way to recycle both industrial waste and food waste while producing safer, more nutritious mushrooms.

Microbial Degradation of Chromium-Tanned Leather During Thermophilic Composting: A Multi-Scale Analysis of Microbial Communities and Structural Disruption

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This study investigated how naturally occurring microorganisms can break down chromium-tanned leather waste through controlled composting at high temperatures. Researchers found that thermophilic composting successfully fragmented leather and selected specialized bacteria and fungi capable of surviving in chromium-rich environments. These microorganisms formed protective biofilms on leather surfaces, suggesting potential strategies for safer disposal of leather waste from the footwear and tannery industries.

Enhancing the Nutritional Value and Antioxidant Activity of Auricularia polytricha Through Efficient Utilization of Agricultural Waste

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Researchers successfully grew Auricularia polytricha mushrooms using agricultural waste like cotton, coix seed, and wheat straw instead of expensive wood chips. The mushrooms grown this way not only matured 16 days faster but also contained significantly more nutrients including proteins, minerals, and beneficial compounds with antioxidant properties. This approach provides an affordable, environmentally friendly solution while producing healthier mushrooms.

Novel Approach in Biodegradation of Synthetic Thermoplastic Polymers: An Overview

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This review explores how microorganisms like fungi and bacteria can break down plastic waste, which is a major environmental problem. Plastic bags and packaging materials take thousands of years to decompose naturally, but certain fungi produce special enzymes that can degrade plastics more quickly. The research suggests that using biodegradable plastics and microbial degradation could be promising solutions to reduce plastic pollution in soil and marine environments.

Ecofriendly Usability of Mushroom Cultivation Substrate as a Ruminant Feed: Anaerobic Digestion Using Gas Production Techniques

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Mushroom farming produces large amounts of waste substrate that typically ends up in landfills. This research shows that after mushrooms are harvested, the remaining substrate can be safely fed to cattle and other ruminant animals. The mushroom cultivation process actually improves the substrate’s nutritional quality by breaking down tough plant fibers, making it easier for animals to digest. This discovery could help farms reduce waste, lower feeding costs, and address environmental pollution.

Microbial inactivation and emission of volatile organic compounds in low-heat thermal treatment of infectious healthcare waste

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Hospitals use special devices to sterilize infectious waste, but these machines can release harmful gases into the air. Researchers tested four different types of sterilizers in Tehran hospitals and found that machines with internal shredders work best and produce fewer harmful vapors. Temperature control during the sterilization process is crucial for effectiveness, and hospitals should install better air filtering systems to protect workers and the environment from exposure to these emissions.

Research Keyword: waste management