For decades, we have turned the Buriganga River, known as the lungs of Dhaka, into a repository of toxic waste. But in February 2026, the country is witnessing a scientific miracle.
Bangladeshi scientists have developed a super enzyme, ‘PET-ase 2.0’, that can break down plastic waste into organic matter in just a few weeks.
When science is magic
After five years of research, Dhaka University and BCSIR jointly developed this enzyme. It’s a protein from bacteria that breaks down strong plastic polymer chains.
This enzyme was applied as a pilot project at several points of the river in early 2026. Initial results indicate that large amounts of polythene and plastic at the river’s bottom are slowly breaking down chemically.
Economic Potential: Fertilizer from Waste
Residue from plastic breakdown is being used to create high-quality, nitrogen-rich organic fertilizer. The government has set up three ‘bio-conversion plants’ on the banks of Buriganga.
The fertilizer produced from here is now being used in the country’s agriculture sector. That is, the river is being cleaned and we are getting fertilizer completely free.
Public Participation
In 2026, AI has been added to the CCTV cameras on the banks of the river. If someone throws plastic into the river, their identity is automatically captured, and a fine is deducted from their digital bank account. The Buriganga River’s black water is now turning grey, and fish are returning after a long absence.
