BIODEGRADATION OF POLYETHYLENE BY FUNGAL ISOLATES AND THEIR CONSORTIUM FROM DUMPSITES OF SHIVAMOGGA DISTRICT
Sowmya H. V., Nayanashree G. and *Thippeswamy B.
Polyethylene is a widely used synthetic polymer that has become a major environmental concern due to its non-biodegradable nature. Conventional waste management methods such as landfilling and incineration pose environmental risks, highlighting the need for sustainable alternatives. Biodegradation using microorganisms offers an eco-friendly solution for polyethylene waste management. In the present study, Trichodermaharzianum, Aspergillus candidus, Aspergillus fumigatus, and Chaetomiumglobosum were isolated from local dumpsites of Shivamogga District and evaluated for their ability to degrade polyethylene. Surface-sterilized polyethylene sheets were subjected to degradation for three months. The extent of degradation was assessed by weight loss analysis, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). Among the individual isolates, T. harzianum showed the highest degradation (13%), followed by C. globosum (5.6%), A. candidus (1.7%), and A. fumigatus (1.6%). Notably, the fungal consortium demonstrated enhanced degradation with 25% weight loss. FTIR and SEM analyses confirmed structural and surface changes in polyethylene, indicating biodegradation. Enzyme screening revealed the production of laccase and manganese peroxidase, suggesting their involvement in the degradation process. These findings demonstrate that fungal consortia play a significant role in polyethylene biodegradation and offer a promising, eco-friendly strategy for managing plastic waste.
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