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VOL. 8, ISSUE 1 (2026)
Isolation of plastic-degrading bacteria from soil: A systematic review
Authors
Aastha Nresht, Lavanya Bhatt, Shatakshi Rawat, Anita Chauhan
Abstract
Plastic pollution has become one of the most pressing global
environmental concerns due to the persistence and recalcitrance of synthetic
polymers in nature. Conventional disposal methods, such as landfilling and
incineration, are unsustainable and pose ecological risks. Microbial
degradation, particularly through bacteria, has emerged as a promising
eco-friendly approach. Reported degradation rates vary from 5–30% weight
reduction for polyethylene films after 30–90 days, depending on the bacterial
strain. This review compiles data from studies isolating bacteria from landfill
sites, industrial waste zones, marine sediments, agricultural fields, and
compost pits. Common isolation methods include pre-enrichment with polyethylene
films, mineral salt media supplemented with polymers, and screening via
clear-zone formation or weight-loss measurements. This review summarizes recent
progress in the isolation of plastic-degrading bacteria, including the sources
from which they are obtained, the enrichment and screening techniques used, and
the key bacterial genera reported to degrade different plastic types. Key
bacterial genera—including Pseudomonas, Bacillus, Streptomyces,
and Rhodococcus—are highlighted for their reported ability to degrade
polyethylene, PET, PVC, and other polymers. This review compiles current
research on the isolation of plastic-degrading bacteria from soil, marine,
landfill, and compost environments. It discusses enrichment culture techniques,
polymer-supplemented media, zone-of-clearance assays, and biochemical or
molecular tools used for identifying potent degraders. The role of enzymes such
as PETase, MHETase, lipases, and laccases is also discussed. Finally, current
challenges and future perspectives in enhancing bacterial plastic degradation
are highlighted, emphasizing the potential of biotechnology and genetic
engineering to address plastic waste accumulation.
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Pages:108-115
How to cite this article:
Aastha Nresht, Lavanya Bhatt, Shatakshi Rawat, Anita Chauhan "Isolation of plastic-degrading bacteria from soil: A systematic review". International Journal of Ecology and Environmental Sciences, Vol 8, Issue 1, 2026, Pages 108-115
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