The ethanolic extract of white oyster (Pleurotus ostreatus) mushrooms was examined their macro-agronomic features, chemical compound properties and antioxidant activities. Additionally, P. ostreatus was found to be an excellent decomposer of low-density polyethylene (LDPE) because it was able to tear down an LDPE film, which was a surprise. The mushroom exhibited a considerable 23% reduction in the weight of the film after 30 days of its growth on LDPE, showing its good biodegradation ability. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analysis showed the chemical bonding as O-H, C-H, C=C, C-N, etc., and functional groups as alkane, aklene, amine etc., of P. ostreatus. X-ray diffraction of the treated LDPE films showed a clear crystalline structure, which showed that the mushroom changed the structure of the plastic. This study aimed to explore the biodegradation potential of P. ostreatus, highlighting its promising application in environmental plastic waste management. The findings suggest further research is necessary to understand the specific enzymes or processes involved in LDPE degradation, potentially leading to the development of novel eco-friendly technologies.
