The Truth About Biodegradable Plastics

Biodegradable plastics are often hailed as a sustainable solution to the world’s plastic crisis. They look like conventional plastics, perform similarly, and promise to break down into nature after disposal. However, the reality is more complex, claims an article in the New York Times. Misunderstanding the limitations of biodegradable plastics can undermine their potential benefits and exacerbate environmental harm. 

The Challenges of Biodegradable Plastics 

While many biodegradable plastics do break down, they require specific conditions to do so effectively. For example, polylactic acid (PLA), a common biodegradable plastic, only decomposes efficiently in industrial composting facilities. Unfortunately, such facilities are scarce in many regions. As a result, most PLA plastics end up in landfills, waterways, or the ocean, where they persist like traditional plastics or are incinerated, releasing greenhouse gases and toxic chemicals. 

Compounding the issue is the incompatibility of biodegradable plastics with curbside recycling programs. Biodegradable plastics can contaminate recycling streams, making it harder to process conventional recyclable plastics. This challenge is especially significant for items like dog waste bags, which are not typically accepted by commercial composters.   

Misleading Perceptions and Risks 

The marketing of biodegradable plastics can create a false sense of environmental responsibility. Consumers may feel justified in purchasing more of these products, believing they have minimal environmental impact. Worse, some might litter biodegradable plastics under the assumption that they will naturally return to the earth, which is rarely the case without the right disposal conditions. 

A Global Plastic Crisis 

The urgency to address the world’s plastic problem cannot be overstated. According to the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP), global plastic production exceeds 430 million tonnes annually, with only 9% of this waste being recycled. Traditional plastics, derived from fossil fuels, can take centuries to decompose, exacerbating pollution and harming ecosystems. 

Alternatives to plastic offer promise but are not yet a panacea. Researchers are working on innovative solutions, such as plastics made from corncobs or cheese waste byproducts, which are more readily biodegradable and emit fewer greenhouse gases during production. However, reducing production costs and scaling these solutions remain significant hurdles. 

A Shared Responsibility 

Until truly biodegradable plastics are widely available, the best way to do your part to tackle the plastic pollution crisis is to reduce your use of single-use plastics. This can feel daunting, but small changes can make a big impact. Here are a few easy ways to cut down on single-use plastics in your daily life: 

• Carry a reusable water bottle made from glass or metal 
• Bring your own shopping bags to the supermarket 
• Say no to plastic straws – opt for metal or bamboo, or ditch the straw altogether 
• Pack food in reusable containers like beeswax wraps, glass or stainless steel lunch boxes 

The solution to plastic pollution is complex but, if we all do our bit, together we can solve the problem.