“Our oceans are being clogged by long-lasting plastic containers, bags and even microplastics - which pose a significant threat to ecosystems including millions of seabirds and mammals,” Dr Qiao said.

The team is developing a range of high-value, customised seawater-degradable plastics using 3D-printing techniques developed by Dr Qiao’s research group at AIBN, and polymeric materials generated by the Chinese Academy of Sciences.

Dr Qiao said one technique they’ll use, called ring-opening polymerisation, allows them to precisely control the mechanical strength and shape of the plastics while giving the plastics a low-toxic polyester ‘backbone’.

Dr Qiao said the goal is to commercialise a new line of products in Australia and China within five years to replace traditional plastics and tap into a biodegradable market expected to exceed $9.5 billion by that time.

“Effective seawater-degradable polymer plastics will reduce plastic debris in oceans, boosting the health of ecosystems and the quality of life in communities around the world,” she said.