Dissolvable Plastic Solutions
University of Tokyo Scientists Develop Biodegradable Plastic
Debra John — July 1, 2025
Dissolvable plastic developed by scientists from the University of Tokyo and the RIKEN Centre for Emergent Matter Science marks a significant breakthrough in sustainable materials. This newly engineered biodegradable plastic dissolves in seawater within hours and breaks down in soil within 10 days, offering a promising solution to the growing problem of plastic pollution.
Announced in late 2024 and detailed in the journal Science, the material not only decomposes rapidly but also improves soil fertility as it breaks down, distinguishing it from conventional plastics that persist in the environment and contribute to long-term ecological harm.
This innovation "directly addresses urgent global concerns such as marine pollution and carbon emissions, offering a practical, eco-friendly alternative for industries reliant on plastic." As demand for sustainable packaging grows, this dissolvable plastic may play a transformative role in shaping a cleaner, more circular future.
