A scientist created a biodegradable plastic made from cactus — and it dissolves in water in just a few days.
In a remarkable step toward solving the global waste crisis, researcher Sandra Pascoe Ortiz from the University of Valle de Atemajac in Mexico has developed a fully biodegradable plastic using the juice of the prickly pear (nopal) cactus.
Unlike conventional plastics that rely on petroleum and linger in ecosystems for centuries, this cactus-based alternative breaks down in soil in just a month and dissolves in water in a matter of days.
Most impressively, the material is completely non-toxic; its entirely natural chemical compounds are safe for both humans and wildlife to consume, eliminating the threat of microplastic poisoning in marine environments.
While the project began as a chemistry classroom experiment, it has quickly grown into a collaborative effort with the University of Guadalajara.
Currently transitioning from lab-scale trials to industrial applications, Ortiz and several corporate partners are testing its viability for mass production.
Scaling up this cactus-derived polymer could significantly curb the estimated 2.4 million metric tons of plastic entering the oceans each year, proving that natural alternatives are not only viable but essential for planetary recovery.
source: Snowden, S. Scientist In Mexico Creates Biodegradable Plastic From Prickly Pear Cactus. Forbes.
He said goodbye to his best friend the same way they had spent so many years together, riding the waves side by side.
In August 2026, Costa Rican surf instructor Diego Jiménez gave his beloved dog Thai one final trip to the ocean after 16 years together.
Thai had been battling cancer, and when the time came to say goodbye, Diego carried him onto a surfboard, scattered flower petals around him, and let the waves become their final shared place.
Diego later wrote, “See you soon… we will always feel each other, in every wave, in every sunset, always in the sea.”
Their farewell touched millions online because it was more than a goodbye. It was one last moment in the place where so many of their happiest memories had been made.
Sixteen years of friendship, one final wave, and a love the ocean could never wash away.
@MattHkz@NWSSanDiego Yes! Stay clear of deserts and mountains, especially headed south toward San Diego where it is supposed to hit hardest. Flash flooding is certain to happen.
File uder:
Jobs I wish I would have known about when I was younger
•Outdoors
•Detective work
I might start watching this over Thanksgiving Break, if I can handle it https://t.co/206VrPOkI2
How are these numbers for the middle of winter?
Yesterday had a high of 82° and a couple of kids threw up bc we haven't acclimated to the heat, yet
Watch, our Spring Pep Rally in April will be cool.... https://t.co/MHL9TtAgHa