Around 98% of lignin, a forestry by-product, is discarded, but a newly identified enzyme could unlock high-value molecules using a green chemistry approach.  

This enzyme, found in the soil bacterium Amycolatopsis thermoflava, enables an eco-friendly method to process lignin, replacing toxic petroleum-based synthesis. The research, published in Nature Communications, highlights its potential for sustainable biorefineries.  

Lignin, a major component of plant cell walls, is one of Earth’s most abundant polymers. Each year, around 100 million tonnes of lignin waste is generated, yet it holds promise as a renewable feedstock for fragrances, fuels, and pharmaceuticals.  

Traditional lignin processing relies on high temperatures, strong acids, and toxic solvents, making it costly and environmentally harmful. While researchers had previously identified an enzyme to break down a key softwood lignin component, no biological method had been found to process the second, more complex hardwood compound until now.  

By harnessing hydrogen peroxide, this enzyme efficiently breaks down lignin into valuable chemicals without harmful byproducts. This discovery paves the way for future green chemistry innovations, transforming waste lignin into a sustainable resource for industrial applications.

Source: https://www.adelaide.edu.au/newsroom/news/list/2025/03/27/new-green-chemistry-extracts-valuable-compounds-from-plant-waste