Could Beetles be the Answer to Recycling Styrofoam?

In the U.S. alone, more than 25 billion Styrofoam cups wind up in landfills every year. These types of disposable cups have made traveling with drinks more convenient, but it is not having a positive effect on the environment. The 16-year-old winner of the Intel International Science & Engineering Fair (ISEF) may have found the answer to this problem.

Tseng I-Ching, a student from Taiwan, has research that shows beetle bacteria breaks down this form of plastic used in producing cups and other tableware as well as packing supplies. While the research isn't completely conclusive, it is a step in the right direction. Instead of this light weight substance ending up in landfills and being carried all over the place by the wind, we may soon be able to recycle Styrofoam. If it's with beetles, then so be it!