A newly discovered enzyme, identified through the power of a neural network, has the ability to break down polyurethane—a common and notoriously persistent plastic—into its original chemical building blocks. In just a dozen hours, the enzyme can transform a polyurethane foam pad into reusable raw materials, offering a promising solution to one of the most challenging forms of plastic pollution. The breakthrough was achieved by a team of researchers who used an artificial intelligence model trained to predict enzyme structures capable of degrading synthetic polymers. The neural network analyzed millions of potential enzyme sequences and identified a candidate with exceptional efficiency in breaking down polyurethane, a material widely used in furniture, insulation, and packaging, but rarely recycled due to its complex chemical structure. When tested, the enzyme successfully depolymerized polyurethane into its constituent monomers, which can then be repurposed to make new plastic products. The process is not only fast—completing in about 12 hours—but also operates under mild conditions, reducing the need for high heat or toxic chemicals. This development marks a major step forward in the field of biodegradable plastics and sustainable materials. Unlike traditional recycling methods, which often degrade the quality of the material over time, this enzymatic process allows for true chemical recycling, preserving the material’s value and reducing waste. The team is now working to optimize the enzyme for industrial use, including increasing its stability and activity at scale. If successful, the technology could be integrated into recycling facilities, helping to close the loop on polyurethane waste and reduce the environmental impact of plastic production.