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Technology

Biodegradation of plastics can be achieved by enabling microorganisms in the environment to metabolise the molecular structure of plastic films to produce an inert humus-like material that is less harmful to the environment.

The use of proprietary bio-active compounds compounded with proprietary swelling agent ensure that, when combined with heat and moisture, they expand the plastic's molecular structure and allow the bio-active compounds to metabolise and neutralize the plastic.

Advantages of biodegradable plastic

Using proprietary formulations with existing processes only nominally effects production costs. This is largely because the technology does not rely on changing to re-engineered plastics which have not achieved economies of scale but merely requires adding a small percentage of bio-active material to existing resins. In addition, the additions do not jeopardize the products' quality. Plastic products making use of this type of technology can be manufactured to be clear or opaque, and in any colour.

Environmental Concerns

Over 200 million tonnes of plastic are manufactured annually around the world, according to the SPE. Of those 200 Million tons, 26 Million are manufactured in the United States. The EPA reported in 2003 that only 5.8% of those 26 Million tons of plastic waste are recycled. The wastage of plastic at increased rates are causing problems with landfill capacity throughout the world. The use of biodegradable plastic is one means of reducing the volumes of waste priduced by modern societies.

Cost of production of plastics

Making one kilogram of plastic from genetically modified corn plants requires about 3 times as much energy as that needed to manufacture an equal amount of fossil fuel-based polyethylene. The benefit of using corn instead of petroleum as a raw material could not offset this substantially higher energy demand.