Scientists and engineers from the University of Bath have developed biodegradable cellulose microbeads from a sustainable source that could potentially replace harmful plastic ones that contribute to ocean pollution.
Plastic microbeads used in cosmetics and toothpastes have been leaching via our river systems into our oceans, being ingested by wildlife and entering the food chain. Manufacturers of these products have been under pressure to reduce their production.
Bath University have developed biodegradable microbeads from cellulose which breaks down in the environment and will not have the same polluting impact as the current plastic beads. More information on this project is available here.