At Westview iGEM, we understand that sustainability is a responsibility. Plastic pollution is one of the most pressing environmental issues in the world, and new solutions are needed to build a cleaner, healthier future. Our project, Project PHoeBe, reflects this commitment by working toward a better way to manage biodegradable plastics using synthetic biology. Our work directly supports several of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which provide a shared blueprint for peace, prosperity, and protection of the planet.
Most clearly, our project addresses SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production. By improving the breakdown and recycling process for PHB, a biodegradable plastic, we are promoting more sustainable production methods and reducing long-term waste. If PHB is going to be a true alternative to traditional plastics, it must be recyclable in a practical and environmentally safe way. Our project is a step toward making that possible.
In addition, our work supports SDG 14: Life Below Water, which focuses on protecting marine ecosystems from pollution. Plastic waste, especially microplastics, continues to harm ocean life at every level, as demonstrated by both background research and our interviews with experts. By engineering marine bacteria like Alteromonas macleodii to degrade PHB in ocean environments, we hope to reduce the impact of plastic pollution in these fragile ecosystems.
Finally, Project PHoeBe also contributes to SDG 13: Climate Action, by encouraging the use of sustainable materials and reducing dependence on fossil fuel-based plastics. Although biodegradable plastics alone will not solve climate change, creating systems that make them more viable can help reduce the environmental footprint of plastic production and waste.