Grapevine Canes: A Sustainable Solution to Plastic Pollution?
2025-09-15
Researchers at South Dakota State University have developed a plastic-like material from grapevine canes that is stronger than traditional plastic and biodegrades in just 17 days. This breakthrough addresses the urgent need for biodegradable packaging, tackling the pervasive issue of plastic waste and microplastics in the environment. The resulting films, made from the cellulose in grapevine canes, are transparent, strong, and leave no harmful residue after decomposition, offering a promising sustainable alternative to conventional plastics.