The UK introduces a new standard for degradable plastics: 90% degraded in two years in the open air!
According to a new British standard introduced by the British Standards Institute, plastics must break down into organic matter and carbon dioxide in outdoor air conditions within two years to be classified as biodegradable.
90% of the organic carbon contained in plastic needs to be converted into carbon dioxide within 730 days to meet the new BSI standard. This standard was introduced to resolve the confusion over the meaning of biodegradability.
The PAS9017 standard covers the polyolefin family of thermoplastics including polyethylene and polypropylene, which are one of the leading causes of plastic pollution.
Standard only applies to terrestrial plastic pollutionSet standards to stop manufacturers from misleading the public
New process aims to make plastic biodegradable
With plastic production expected to double by 2050, many technologists are also looking for alternatives to fossil-based plastics.
