UBC’s Game-Changing Discovery: Can Plants Really Trap 99.9% of Microplastics?

Microplastic pollution, a looming environmental threat, might have met its match in the form of plants. UBC scientists have innovatively harnessed the power of wood dust and tannins to trap up to 99.9% of microplastics in water. This groundbreaking solution, termed “bioCap,” offers a sustainable approach to combat the pervasive microplastic issue. Tannins, the natural plant compounds responsible for the astringent taste in unripe fruits, play a pivotal role in this filtration process. Collaborative efforts between UBC and China’s Sichuan University have led to this remarkable discovery. The bioCap filter, unlike its plastic counterparts, champions environmental sustainability by using biodegradable … Continue reading UBC’s Game-Changing Discovery: Can Plants Really Trap 99.9% of Microplastics?