There is a new trend in green living out there, namely biodegradable plastic bags. At a first glance, it seems like an answer to our prayers—trash bags that break down in a certain period of time instead of ones that never go away. Or are they?
Conventional plastic is made from petroleum and is one of the materials that are extremely hard to get rid of, since plastic breaks down into toxic particles that pollute water and soil, thus finding their way into the food chain. Biodegradable plastic is supposed to decompose into water, carbon dioxide and biomass when exposed to heat and sunlight.
Two types of biodegradable trash bags are available on the market so far: bio-based, made from corn, sugarcane or potatoes and synthetic, mixed with additives that help the plastic disintegrate when exposed to heat, light and oxygen. The latter kind, however, is a bit problematic since it only ‘biodegrades’ when exposed to the elements and does not when buried underground. While the former is a much better option, both types of bags end up in the landfills and nothing breaks down 100% in an airtight landfill. Moreover, synthetic biodegradable trash bags contain additives that are harmful to animals if ingested. Despite the fact that biodegradable plastic bags are a better choice than conventional plastics, they are still not the best one.
So what can you do to reduce the burden of plastic bags in the landfills? First of all, compost your garbage if possible. A few American cities participate in composting trash and for that purpose biodegradable bags are a way to go. If, however, your trash is destined for landfills your best option are bags made of recycled plastic, for instance EarthSense Kitchen Trash Bags made from 70% recycled plastic and 10% post-consumer plastic or Seventh Generation Drawstring Tall Kitchen Trash Bags made from 45% recycled and 25% post-consumer plastics.
