Biodegradable Items That Can Replace Plastic

Plastic is a proven hazard to the environment in several ways. Plastic products persist in the environment long after use, creating one such hazard. The plastic in landfills persists after other waste has degraded into usable earth. The widespread use of plastic within households make congestion a larger problem for landfills everywhere. Several biodegradable alternatives have been created to reduce and eventually replace plastic waste. Some of these alternatives are already available on retail shelves, available for consumers to purchase.

Definition of Biodegradable

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency defines biodegradable products as any items that can be broken down into a substance that can become a part of its environment. The breakdown process must occur via organic activities, such as being consumed and then discarded by microorganisms. Ultimately, the item can no longer exist in the environment in its original form. Bioplastics must meet this requirement before they can be labeled biodegradable. (See Reference 1)

Introduction to Bioplastics

The household-goods market has already seen plastic replacements in the form of bioplastics. Made from wheat, corn, potatoes and other starchy vegetables, the bioplastics are viable biodegradable options. They are made to replace the plastic containers, utensils and food packing that many people use every day. There are two prominent bioplastics on the market, polyhydroxalkanoate and polylactic acid. Known as PHA and PLA, these bioplastics are increasingly used in place of traditional plastics in many products. (See Reference 2)

Understanding PLA

The bioplastic known as PLA is produced from starches found in corn, wheat and potatoes that are fermented by lactobacillus organisms. The lactic acid produced by the organisms is fused with polymers to created a plastic-like substance. Once the containers or food packages made from PLA are used, they can be thrown away with ordinary trash. There, the organisms that promote decomposition can easily break the bonds made between the polymers and lactic acid to degrade the package or container. (See Reference 3)

Understanding PHA

The bioplastics known as PHA are similar to PLA but created by a different process. The manufacturing begins with the culturing of a bacteria to produce granules of a plastic-like substance. According to the Australian Academy of Science, the genetic material from these granules can be combined with the genetic material in corn. The result is a special variety of crop that can be easily converted into the bioplastic materials used in a container or food package. PHA products are easily broken down or degraded in landfills and compost settings, like PLA plastics. (See Reference 4)