ASIJHOME
Project Description
We are surrounded by plastic everyday, specifically PET (Polyethylene terephthalate). Considered as the most common type of polyester, PET is a plastic resin often used for packaging consumer products. We can also find it in our water bottles, plastic toys, and even in the fiber of our clothing. PET is a combination of two monomers known as ethylene glycol and purified terephthalic acid that, when combined, form the polymer PET. The problem with PET is that although it is a convenient material for humans to use, it does not easily biodegrade. As PET accumulates in the ecosystems around the world, it poses detrimental effects on habitats worldwide. That is why it is crucial that we find an efficient way to degrade PET.
Journal
TEAM
We are the American School In Japan (ASIJ) iGEM team! We are Japan's first high school iGEM team, and this is our first year in the competition. Our team is composed of 27 individuals, all with a shared interest in the field of synthetic biology. Seven of our members will be traveling to Boston this year to present our project at the Jamboree, along with Ms. Beth Crissy, our teacher advisor, and Dr. Tyler DeWitt, our mentor. We hope our contribution will help combat the issue of artificial waste on our planet, bringing about change and a more optimistic future. If you would like to read more about us, click the tab above titled "Our Team", or check out the link below!
