Scientists in South Dakota have discovered a unique way to combat plastic pollution. They've demonstrated that grapevine waste can be transformed into a material that's more durable than traditional plastic and decomposes in soil within days.
The authors used agricultural byproducts to extract cellulose, a natural biopolymer that gives plants their strength. Previously, the scientists had studied avocados, coffee grounds, and banana peels, but now, for the first time, they've turned their attention to grapevine shoots.
They used grapevine cellulose to create a transparent film similar to plastic packaging. Tests showed that this material decomposes in soil in just 17 days, leaving no harmful residue.
Because of its transparency, it can be used as food packaging. This method of recycling grapevine shoots reduces waste in vineyards and helps address the global plastic problem.
