Scientists have uncovered enzymes and microbial functions with implications for environmental sustainability and biotechnology. Researchers at Leiden identified a common enzyme aiding bacterial breakdown of plastics, potentially addressing pollution challenges. EPFL researchers demonstrated the soil bacterium Bacillus megaterium converts CO₂ directly into mineral calcite, presenting a clean method for carbon capture and material production. Additionally, MIT scientists enhanced photosynthesis by evolving a more efficient, oxygen-tolerant rubisco enzyme variant, promising agricultural yield improvements. Together, these findings highlight biotechnological innovation leveraging natural processes for societal benefit.