Can degradable plastics solve the solid waste problem?
Because landfills are designed to limit degradation, degradable materials of any type are not likely to affect the amount of landfill space available. Likewise, degradability provides no benefit in the areas of recycling and waste-to-energy incineration. In areas where composting or wastewater treatment is available as a solid waste disposal option, however, new degradable plastics may prove effective. Composting plastics and paper waste with other organic compostable materials like yard waste, food and agricultural waste creates a valuable soil supplement and contributes to improved farming and gardening efficiency. Flushable, biodegradable products are readily treated in a regulated wastewater and sewage treatment facility, reducing the impact on other disposal systems. Q: Are we running out of safe places to put landfills? A: No. While the total number of landfills is decreasing, total landfill capacity is actually increasing. It appears that the trend in solid waste management is t
