Valencia biotechnology project uses bacteria and phages to degrade bioplastics

The ‘Microfago’ project is advancing industrial bioplastic treatment through biotechnology by manipulating microorganisms to accelerate decomposition. Coordinated by the Institute of Plastics Technology (AIMPLAS), the initiative utilizes a dual approach: enriching bacteria that degrade plastic while using bacteriophages—highly specific viruses—to eliminate inactive or competing bacteria that slow the process.

This method aims to optimize organic waste treatments such as composting and anaerobic digestion. Following successful laboratory and pilot plant trials, the project is moving toward semi-industrial scale testing to validate performance in real operational settings.

The project is financed by the Ministry of Industry, Tourism, Innovation, and Commerce via Ivace+i, with additional support from European FEDER funds (2021-2027). Participants include the University of Valencia, DARWIN Bioprospecting, Evolving Therapeutics, and GIRSA, all contributing to a circular economy strategy within the Valencian Community.