Scientists have discovered a plastic-eating enzyme that can break down plastic waste in just a matter of days, as opposed to the time is takes naturally for plastic to break down on its own.

This discovery could solve the plastic waste issue that is currently threatening the planet’s environment. If the science behind the enzyme proves to be strong enough, landfill space could be reduced significantly. The most interesting part? It was a scientific “accident,” and one that could change the way plastic is disposed of and recycled worldwide.