Scientists have discovered that waxworm caterpillars can break down polyethylene plastic, one of the most common and persistent pollutants on Earth. These “plastivores” metabolize plastic into body ...

Plastics play a fundamental role in modern life, but their resistance to biodegradation makes them very difficult to dispose of. New research reveals how “plastivore” caterpillars can metabolically ...

W.R. Meadows, a manufacturer of high-performance construction materials, has announced the acquisition of Alcot Plastics Ltd., a well-established producer of extruded polyethylene foam products based ...

Two types of common plastic can be turned into the key molecules that are used to make soap. “Plastic pollution is a major problem we face today,” says Greg Liu at Virginia Tech. So, he and his ...

Polyethylene plastics — in particular, the ubiquitous plastic bag that blights the landscape — are notoriously hard to recycle. They’re sturdy and difficult to break down, and if they’re recycled at ...

Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. Jamie Hailstone is a U.K-based reporter, who covers sustainability. Foam cups for customers are pictured at the coffee counter of ...