Debate over paper vs plastic bags and characterization of cellulose degraders: an overview

The plastic vs paper debate is a frequently discussed issue. Paper and plastics debate attempts to determine which among the two has least ecological cost considering its large scale usage. Paper bags are the cornerstone of many foods packaging industry and available in various forms. They are mainly made up of cellulosic fibres and to improve the strength of their fibres, various chemicals are also added during manufacturing. It uses up enormous resources and is a highly energy consuming process. Due to its weight, transportation of paper items is found more expensive than transportation of plastic bags. On other hand, polyethylene is used for manufacturing of food storage containers, as well as to prepare bags to carry greasy, oily foods. It can withstand slightly higher temperature, i.e. 1200C. Present research work was carried out in order to investigate scientific basis to determine which among paper and plastic is advantageous to use to minimize environmental cost.
Paper bags were collected from food outlets like McDonald’s and local eateries. Microorganisms which are capable of degrading paper bags within short period of time were isolated from soil. These organisms were identified on the basis of its morphological and biochemical characteristics. Enrichment of these microbial cultures was carried out to prepare consortium. Similarly the grocery bags and cereal box liners having High density polyethylene 2 (HDPE-2,) coating, as well as polypropylene, bags carrying thermoplastic polymer fibres were also checked for biodegradability. Screening of Microorganisms applied for these polymer degradation tests were from the soil of a dumping ground where different forms of plastic bags were dumped. The study reveals that in In-vitro conditions, within 15 days, decomposition of pieces of brown and a white paper bag had occurred. While in case of HDPE 2 bags, slight reduction in the weight of some samples had occurred, when applied for In-situ condition as well as In-vitro tests, applying selective consortium of bioculture for biodegradability.