Researchers have developed a new enzyme, called CCPUR1, that can break down polyurethane, a type of plastic commonly used in shoe soles, mattresses, and kitchen sponges. This enzyme was discovered in a bacterium named Chelatococcus composti, which was found in compost samples collected in Denmark. The study, published in the journal Chem Catalysis on September 11, marks a step forward in the search for sustainable ways to recycle plastic waste. Polyurethane is a durable and widely used material, but it is difficult to recycle because it doesn’t break down easily in nature. The researchers used genetic engineering to modify the enzyme, aiming to enhance its ability to target and degrade polyurethane. They combined computer simulations with biochemical experiments to adjust the enzyme’s structure, focusing on specific amino acids—building blocks of proteins—that could help it better interact with the plastic material. In laboratory tests, the modified enzyme was able to break down approximately 1.4% of the polyurethane in shoe soles over a three-day period. While this level of degradation is relatively small, the results show that enzymes like CCPUR1 could one day play a role in reducing plastic waste. However, the researchers emphasize that more work is needed before this technology can be used on a large scale. This study highlights the potential of using naturally occurring bacteria and their enzymes to tackle environmental challenges. By understanding how these enzymes work, scientists may be able to develop more effective methods for recycling and breaking down plastics in the future.