Hawaii teen finds fungi in coconut husks that can biodegrade plastic

Hawaii teen Vera Wang, a senior at Kaiser High School, has made a groundbreaking discovery while conducting research under the guidance of Dr. Anthony Amend at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa. Her work, which initially focused on creating a natural filter to remove microplastics and sunscreen from ocean water, has led to the identification of fungi in coconut husks capable of biodegrading both plastics and sunscreen chemicals. This discovery was recognized at the 2026 Hawaiʻi State Science & Engineering Fair and highlights a novel approach to tackling persistent environmental pollutants. Wang's journey began during her tenth-grade year when she embarked on a project inspired by Polynesian weaving techniques. She developed a filter using coconut byproducts to capture microplastics and sunscreen compounds from surface water. The project combined traditional knowledge with modern environmental science, utilizing coconut fibers, both as a physical filtration medium and as an agricultural byproduct that would otherwise go to waste. The initial goal was to create an effective method for removing contaminants from marine environments. However, Wang quickly realized that simply trapping pollutants wasn’t enough. Once collected, the materials still posed challenges for proper disposal. This realization prompted her to shift focus toward understanding whether the microbes present in coconut husks could play a role in breaking down the very pollutants they were capturing. This insight marked a pivotal moment in her research, leading to further exploration of the microbial communities within coconut husks. The unique properties of coconut husks played a key role in this breakthrough. Their porous structure allows for the movement of air and water, creating an ideal habitat for microbial life. Wang hypothesized that the fungi inhabiting these husks might have the capability to decompose the pollutants they were trapping. With the support of Amend’s laboratory, she began investigating the naturally occurring fungal communities in coconut husks, examining their interactions with sunscreen and plastic materials. Her findings revealed that certain fungi present on coconut husks can biodegrade both plastic and sunscreen compounds. Biodegradation refers to the process by which microorganisms chemically break down materials into simpler substances. This discovery is particularly significant given the difficulty of managing plastic pollution, which typically involves costly collection, transportation, and processing efforts. Similarly, sunscreen compounds that enter marine ecosystems are challenging to remove once dispersed throughout water bodies. The research also uncovered that tannins, a type of organic compound found in coconut fibers, may contribute to supporting the growth of these specialized fungi. Kaylee Christensen, a graduate student in the Marine Biology Graduate Program working alongside Wang, noted that the tannins in coconut fibers could be instrumental in fostering the conditions necessary for these fungi to thrive and function effectively. While the results are promising, further studies are required to fully understand the specific species of fungi involved, the exact mechanisms of degradation, and the potential applications beyond the laboratory setting. Researchers are currently exploring whether these fungi could be cultivated or utilized in real-world scenarios to address the growing issue of marine pollution. As the investigation continues, the implications of Wang’s discovery extend beyond academic recognition. They offer a glimpse into the untapped potential of natural resources in solving complex environmental problems. The interplay between traditional practices and cutting-edge science exemplifies how innovative thinking can lead to sustainable solutions for global challenges.