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'Degradable' plastic not so environmentally fantastic, study reveals

Oxo-degradable plastics, which include additives to speed break down, may not break down fast enough and could have a negative effect on the environment a government funded study by Loughborough University says. It describes the term 'biodegradable' as 'virtually meaningless' as the rates of degradation in materials are so different.

It suggests either more detail about the type of biodegradability is put on labels or the word is dropped and replaced with disposal instructions. The report says incineration is the best option for oxo-degradable plastics with landfill the next best option. Environment minister, Dan Norris, said: "As these plastics cannot be composted, the term 'biodegradable' can cause confusion. Read more (Source: Edie)

17 March 2010