Researchers in Japan have developed a new plastic material that dissolves in seawater within just a few hours—an innovation that could help tackle the modern scourge of ocean pollution and its devastating impact on wildlife.

While scientists worldwide have long been experimenting with biodegradable plastics, a team from the RIKEN Center for Emergent Matter Science and the University of Tokyo says their new material breaks down much faster and leaves no toxic residue behind.

In a lab in Wako, near Tokyo, the researchers demonstrated a small piece of the plastic disappearing in a container of saltwater after being stirred for about an hour.

Although the team has yet to finalize plans for commercialization, project leader Takuzo Aida noted that their breakthrough has already attracted strong interest, especially from the packaging industry.

Scientists around the globe are racing to develop innovative solutions to the growing plastic waste crisis, a challenge highlighted by awareness campaigns such as World Environment Day, which takes place tomorrow, Thursday.

According to projections from the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), plastic pollution is expected to triple by 2040, potentially adding 23 to 37 million metric tons of waste to the world’s oceans every year.

“Children don’t get to choose the planet they will live on. It’s our duty as scientists to ensure we leave them the best possible environment,” said Aida.

The Japanese scientist emphasized that the new material is as strong as petroleum-based plastics but breaks down into its original components when exposed to salt. These components can then be naturally processed by bacteria, preventing the formation of microplastics—which harm marine life and can enter the food chain.

Aida added that since salt is also found in soil, a five-centimeter piece of the plastic degrades on land in just over 200 hours.

The material can be used just like conventional plastic once it’s coated. The team is currently focusing its research on optimizing the coating methods.

Aida concluded that the plastic is non-toxic, non-flammable, and does not emit carbon dioxide, making it an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional plastics.