Petition: Research Superworm That Eats Trash and Reduces Plastic Waste

Scientists from the University of Queensland in Australia have discovered that a type of beetle larvae called Zophobas morio can consume and break down polystyrene, one of the most widely used forms of plastic. Scientists believe that these miracle worms that originate from central and South America, actually enjoy eating polystyrene. After they shred the polystyrene in their mouth, it then travels to feed the bacteria in their gut. In a three-week study, the Zophobas that were fed polystyrene thrived and were able to turn this material into energy.

While plastic may seem convenient at times, there is nothing quick or convenient about it. It threatens the health of the environment, animals, and even people. Furthermore, a majority of plastics don’t end up making it to a recycling facility to be manufactured into a new object. Sadly, 80 percent of plastic water bottles used in the United States each year end up in a landfill.

Before these super worms are unleashed all around the world, scientists must grow the worms’ gut bacteria in a lab, and continue to test their ability to break down plastics

Source: South China Morning Post/Youtube

These super worms could play a vital role in waste management and disposal. Sign this petition to demand the EPA heavily invest in researching this amazing super worm to reduce plastic waste!

To continue speaking up, sign these other petitions as well:

• Stop This Zoo From Allowing Visitors To Play Cruel Games With Their Big Cats
• Tell U.S. Lawmakers to Finally Protect Big Cats
• Demand Justice for Nearly 30 Puppies and Dogs Who Were Found Bleeding
• Ban All Animal Abusers From Living With or Owning Animals Ever Again
• Help Stop the Inhumane Killing of Cats on Kangaroo Island
• Demand Limits on Climate Catastrophe Private Jet Rides
• Protect Lake County’s Greenway Corridor
• Demand These Companies Remove ‘Forever Chemicals’ From Period Products
• FIFA and Its Partners Should Compensate the Workers Who Built It
• Fire U.S. Dept. of Agriculture’s Wildlife Services For Slaughtering Wild Animals

For more Animal, Earth, Life, Vegan Food, Health, and Recipe content published daily, subscribe to theOne Green Planet Newsletter! Also, don’t forget to download the Food Monster App on iTunes — with over 15,000 delicious recipes it is the largest meatless, vegan, and allergy-friendly recipe resource to help reduce your environmental footprint, save animals and get healthy! Lastly, being publicly-funded gives us a greater chance to continue providing you with high-quality content. Please consider supporting us by donating!