PolyU research unveils hidden microbial threats to ecosystem caused by plastic waste, urging global collaboration to track harmful microbiomes (IMAGE)

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University

PolyU research unveils hidden microbial threats to ecosystem caused by plastic waste, urging global collaboration to track harmful microbiomes

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The research findings reveal that, compared with microbial communities in nature environment, the plastisphere has a more pronounced ability to decompose organic compounds, which may accelerate carbon turnover, and harbour more pathogens that pose risks to humans, animals and plants.

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© 2025 Research and Innovation Office, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University. All Rights Reserved.

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