This Space for Rent

BEWARE MUTANT PLASTIC EATERS

Bacteria could help transform a key component of disposable cups, plates and utensils into a useful eco-friendly plastic, significantly reducing the environmental impact of this ubiquitous, but difficult-to-recycle waste stream, according to a study scheduled to appear in the April 1 issue of the American Chemical Society journal, Environmental Science & Technology.

A good idea, if it works. But aside from the normal precautions you need to take if you're doing research, perhaps you should call a bacterial holiday before you reach strain #59, because otherwise ...

In a dozen tunnels, trains ground down to a halt. Hordes of terrified commuters made their way anxiously along dark, musty tunnels to the lights and safety of the next station. There were minor explosions, fires, and the failure of a million wires and cables. As the dissolution of plastic proceeded and accelerated in rate, the elegant order of the system gradually turned into complete chaos.

... and, before you know it, there will be tardises appearing all over the subways, with a thousand Harry "Snapper" Organs clones popping out and shouting "What's all this then?" to the terrified commuters.

(via Bouphonia)