# Argentina-Chile plastic pollution and enzyme research > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/argentina-chile-plastic-pollution-and-enzyme-research > Updated: 2026-08-16T14:20:13.000Z. Sources: 7. Developments: 2. Researchers in Argentina and Chile are engaged in environmental studies and biotechnological research regarding plastic pollution. An international study, “Plastic Waste in Remote and Mountainous Areas,” is assessing macroplastics and micro/nanoplastics in strategic locations such as Aconcagua Provincial Park and Los Glaciares National Park. Concurrently, a research team led by Sebastián Rodríguez at the University of Chile’s Center for Biotechnology and Bioengineering (CeBiB) has identified a bacterial enzyme, PETS26b, in the Atacama Desert. The enzyme, which was sourced from microorganisms in the extreme environment, is capable of degrading polyethylene terephthalate (PET). Findings published in the journal Protein Science suggest the enzyme’s ability to break down plastic may be a consequence of pre-existing biological functions rather than an evolution specifically for synthetic materials. This discovery is noted for its potential applications in environmental biotechnology and the circular economy. ## Timeline ### 2026-08-16: University of Chile identifies Atacama enzyme capable of degrading plastic University of Chile researchers identified PETS26b, an enzyme from Atacama Desert microorganisms capable of degrading PET plastic, offering new potential for environmental biotechnology. 4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/university-of-chile-identifies-atacama-enzyme-capable-of-degrading-plastic ### 2026-08-14: Argentina and Chile advance plastic research and enzyme discovery Scientists in Argentina and Chile are investigating plastic pollution in remote mountain regions while researchers in the Atacama Desert discover a PET-degrading enzyme with potential for biotechnology. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/argentina-and-chile-advance-plastic-research-and-enzyme-discovery --- Cite as: Argentina-Chile plastic pollution and enzyme research. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/argentina-chile-plastic-pollution-and-enzyme-research