DefinePK

Abstract

The extensive use of surgical face masks during the COVID-19 pandemic, designed to reduce viral transmission, has led to significant environmental concerns due to their plastic polymer composition, which takes a long time to degrade. This study addresses this ecological issue by isolating and screening microorganisms from soil samples that can degrade these masks. Soil samples were collected from 50 different locations in Karachi. The isolation process utilized spread and streak plate methods along with various staining techniques. Biochemical tests were conducted to profile the microbes, and simultaneous subcultures were grown to obtain pure cultures for the final inoculum. The masks were cut into 2 cm x 2 cm pieces, chemically treated, and placed in culture conditions to assess biodegradation. The rate of biodegradation ranged from 95% to 99.5% with microorganisms such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella sp., Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus cereus, Escherichia coli, Streptococcus sp., Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus fumigatus, Penicillium notatum, Streptomyces sp., Rhizopus arrizus, and Mucor. Among these, Aspergillus flavus, Penicillium notatum, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Escherichia coli were identified as the most effective biodegraders. The objective of this research is to provide a sustainable solution to the environmental pollution caused by discarded surgical masks, thereby mitigating the long-term ecological impact. By identifying and utilizing soil microorganisms that can efficiently degrade these masks, this research aims to develop a rapid and scalable biodegradation process to benefit society by reducing plastic pollution. This study specifically underscores the importance of sustainable waste management practices during pandemics.
Keywords: Biodegradation; Covid-19; Environmental Microbiology; Soil Microorganism; Surgical Face Masks
http://dx.doi.org/10.19045/bspab.2025.140015