5.4 Plastic Waste Flashcards
1
Q
What are many polymers NOT?
A
Biodegradable
2
Q
What does not being biodegradable mean?
A
They are not broken down when left in the environment
3
Q
What is bad about non-biodegradable rubbish?
A
It is unsightly, can harm wildlife and takes up space in landfill sites
4
Q
What happens to plastics that are biodegradable?
A
They are broken down by microorganisms when in contact with the soil
5
Q
Describe how biodegradable plastics are broken down.
A
Biodegradable polymers are made with cornstarch mixed in to the plastics so microorganisms break down the cornstarch and the plastic breaks down into very small pieces that can be mixed with soil or compost
6
Q
What can biodegradable plastics be made from?
A
Plant material
