Fungal Assisted Carbon Capture: A Comparative Analysis of Fungal Strains in Plastic Degradation for Carbon Utilization

This paper investigates the biodegradation efficiency of four fungal species – Pestalotiopsis, Phanerochaete chrysosporium, Aspergillus Niger and Penicillium simplicissimum - in degradable plastics and demonstrates their role in carbon capture and utilization (CCU). Plastic waste has a huge impact on the environment and carbon footprint due to its persistent nature. The selected fungi show unique enzymatic properties that easily break down various plastic polymers and convert them into less harmful compounds. In particular, Pestalotiopsis microspore degrades polyurethane well, while Phanerochaete chrysosporium is sensitive to polyethylene. This paper highlights the ability of these fungi not only to reduce plastic pollution, but also to reduce carbon emissions during the biodegradation process. By optimizing mushroom applications in waste management, we can create sustainable strategies to reduce the carbon footprint associated with plastic waste, which will benefit environmental health. Use of carbon capture (CCU), environmental impact