WAKO, Japan: A team of Japanese scientists has developed an innovative plastic material capable of dissolving in seawater within just a few hours, offering a promising new approach to tackling the global crisis of ocean plastic pollution.

Developed by researchers at the RIKEN Center for Emergent Matter Science in collaboration with the University of Tokyo, the new material stands out for its rapid breakdown in marine environments and its environmentally safe composition. Unlike many biodegradable plastics that can take weeks or months to degrade, this new substance disappears quickly and leaves behind no toxic residue.

During a demonstration at their lab in Wako, just outside Tokyo, the team showed a small plastic sample completely dissolving in salt water after being stirred for around an hour—an impressive feat that signals a new frontier in eco-friendly materials.

Although the plastic has not yet entered the commercialization phase, lead researcher Takuzo Aida revealed that the project has already caught the attention of stakeholders, especially in the packaging industry, which is a major contributor to global plastic waste.

The development comes at a critical time. According to the United Nations Environment Programme, plastic pollution could triple by 2040, with an estimated 23 to 37 million metric tonnes ending up in oceans annually if current trends continue. Efforts like this align with growing global awareness campaigns such as World Environment Day, observed on June 5.

“It’s not just about innovation,” said Aida. “We have a responsibility to the next generation. Children cannot choose the planet they inherit—we must ensure it’s one worth living on.”

The newly developed plastic combines the durability of traditional petroleum-based plastics with a unique ability to decompose into its original building blocks when exposed to salt. These components are then easily digested by natural bacteria, preventing the formation of microplastics that often threaten marine ecosystems and human health through the food chain.

Interestingly, the material also degrades on land. In soil, which contains salt as well, a piece around five centimeters in size will break down in a little over 200 hours.

According to Aida, the material is non-toxic, non-flammable, and does not emit carbon dioxide during its decomposition. It can also be used like conventional plastic when treated with special coatings, which is currently the focus of ongoing research.

The breakthrough presents a hopeful path toward reducing plastic waste and safeguarding marine biodiversity, while maintaining the versatility needed for practical, everyday use.