In a world struggling to deal with plastic pollution, scientists have tapped into an unlikely source for sustainable plastic—cactus—offering a new material that can melt naturally back into the environment without leaving harmful waste.

In Mexico, researcher Professor Sandra Pascoe Ortiz and her team succeeded in developing biodegradable plastic from the juice of the prickly pear or nopal cactus. Unlike the typical plastics made from petroleum, this cactus plastic is entirely plant-based, non-toxic and breaks down quickly in natural conditions. The plastic can dissolve in water within a few days and disappear in soil in less than a month. Importantly, this plastic is even edible and does not harm animals, making it much safer for the environment.

How is this plastic made?

The process begins by harvesting cactus leaves and extracting their juice, which is naturally thick and sticky because of the sugars, pectin, and organic acids found in the plant. This juice is then mixed with natural waxes, glycerol, proteins and various colourants. The mixture is spread into thin layers and dried on heated plates, gradually transforming into clear, flexible sheets much like conventional plastic bags.

Prickly pear cactus grows abundantly even in dry, harsh regions and does not need much water. Only a few leaves are required for extraction, so the plant continues growing without much disturbance. The initial lab process takes nearly ten days, but with advanced technology, larger scale and quicker production are possible.

One prominent benefit of cactus bioplastic is its genuine biodegradability. Many so-called “green plastics” made from sources like corn still need industrial composting facilities to break down. In contrast, cactus-based plastic can decompose in an ordinary home compost pile, a garden, or even water bodies. Its carbon neutral nature also means it does not increase greenhouse gas emissions.

This innovative plastic can be adapted for use in single-use products such as shopping bags, packaging, cosmetic containers, and toys—items frequently seen as litter in cities and on beaches. With its non-toxic properties and flexibility, cactus plastic stands out as a safer, truly eco-friendly alternative for everyday needs.

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