Degradable Plastics

The CIWMB contracted with CSU, Chico Research Foundation to study the performance of degradable plastics in different environments. The research was separated into two separate phases dealing with compostable plastics and degradable plastics.

• Compostable Plastics Study
• Degradable Plastics Study

Compostable Plastics Study

This two-year study (2004-2006) evaluated the effectiveness of compostable rigid plastic packaging containers, food service products and bags meeting ASTM 6400 standard specification. The manufacturers of the products chosen for the study claim their products are compostable.

This study was broken down into three areas:

• Literature review
• Demonstration project at the Chico University cafeteria
• Compostability evaluation report

The study also evaluated the toxicity effect compostable plastic residues might have on plant growth and quantified any heavy metals present in the compost product.

Compostable Plastics Report

A report entitled Evaluation of the Performance of Rigid Plastic Packaging Containers, Bags, and Food Service Packaging in Full-Scale Commercial Composting has been published as part of this project. Stakeholders were given an opportunity to comment on the draft report and to hear responses to comments at a meeting on March 29, 2007. After the meeting, the report was finalized and published.

Degradable Plastics Study

This was a two-year study (2005-2007) designed to evaluate the performance of degradable plastic products during current use and in selected environments. The products chosen for the study were those commercially available in California. The study also included photo and oxodegradable plastic products.

Research objectives evaluated performance, degradation rates, and environmental impacts of various commercially available degradable plastic packaging and disposable food service ware products. The research was conducted in commercially operated compost facilities and in a simulated marine environment. The study also included a trial testing to measure the impacts degradable plastics might have on the quality of postconsumer resin materials.

Degradable Plastics Report

A report entitled, Performance Evaluation of Environmentally Degradable Plastic Packaging and Disposable Food Service Ware, is now available as a CIWMB Publication. This report was presented at the Board's November 7, 2007, Sustainability and Market Development Committee.

The waste management challenges presented by the increase and use of environmentally degradable plastics were also discussed in the meeting.

If you have general questions about the report, please contact Edgar Rojas.

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Last updated: March 25, 2008