Mitigation of Soil Pollution by Biodegradation of Plastic Materials through Activity of Mealworms
Hira Kanwal
Department of Zoology, University of Sargodha, Pakistan.
Tahreem Fatima
Department of Soil and Environmental Sciences, Muhammad Nawaz Shareef University of Agriculture, Multan, Pakistan.
Umer Sharif
Institute of Plant Protection, Muhammad Nawaz Shareef University of Agriculture, Multan, Pakistan.
Iqra Maryam
Institute of Plant Protection, Muhammad Nawaz Shareef University of Agriculture, Multan, Pakistan.
Komal Naz
Department of Environmental Sciences, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan, Pakistan.
Fareesa Ameer
Department of Entomology, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, Pakistan.
Sanaullah *
Institute of Plant Protection, Muhammad Nawaz Shareef University of Agriculture, Multan, Pakistan.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
An excellent illustration of this idea is the use of insects in circular production systems, since they are capable of converting a variety of organic waste and byproducts into nutrient-rich feedstocks that are subsequently recycled back into the production cycle. This study reviews the use and applicability of mealworms (Tenebrio molitor) in many industries, including food, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, and more, in order to investigate their potential in circular production systems. This insect is highly versatile and has the potential to replace other sources of nutrients and other vital components, but its adoption and acceptability are currently hampered by a number of behavioral and legislative issues. The majority of plastics made from petroleum do not biodegrade in the environment. Research on the biodegradation of plastics by insects was prompted by observations of damage, penetration, and ingestion of plastics by insects and their larvae. More investigation is required to fully understand the mechanisms underlying the fast biodegradation of PS and PE. It is probable that intestinal microbial activities and the host digestive system work in concert to produce this effect. This review's primary goal is to examine insects' potential from a circular economy standpoint, with a particular emphasis on mealworm larvae. This research will also help to mitigate climate change by lowering soil contamination.
Keywords: Plastic, mealworms, soil pollution, biodegradation, soil health