Plastic bags, a ubiquitous convenience, pose a significant environmental challenge due to their non-biodegradable nature. Unlike organic materials, they don’t break down naturally through microbial processes. This persistence leads to long-term pollution, impacting ecosystems and wildlife.
Why are plastic bags non-biodegradable? Let’s take a look at this article today.
Chemical Makeup of Plastic Bags
Plastic bags are primarily composed of polymers, long chains of repeating molecular units. The most common polymer used in their production is polyethylene, a type of plastic derived from petroleum. There are several variations of polyethylene, each with slightly different properties:
- Low-density polyethylene (LDPE): This type is flexible and often used for grocery bags, due to its pliability. The polymer chains in LDPE are branched, which contributes to its lower density and flexibility.
- High-density polyethylene (HDPE): This type is stronger and more rigid, often used for thicker bags like those used in retail stores or for garbage. The polymer chains in HDPE are more linear and tightly packed, leading to higher density and strength.
- Linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE): This variant combines the flexibility of LDPE with the tensile strength of HDPE.
The chemical makeup of these polyethylenes involves long hydrocarbon chains. These chains are made up of carbon and hydrogen atoms linked together. The strong carbon-carbon bonds within these chains are highly resistant to breakdown by natural processes, such as microbial decomposition.
Furthermore, plastic bags often contain additives, such as:
- Plasticizers: These chemicals are added to increase flexibility.
- Colorants: These are used to give the bags their desired color.
- Stabilizers: These additives protect the plastic from degradation due to heat or UV light.
These additives can also contribute to the environmental impact of plastic bags, as they can leach into the surrounding environment when the plastic breaks down. The very nature of the polymer bonds and the added chemicals creates a substance that is very durable, which, while useful in the bag’s intended purpose, is detrimental to the environment.
Why Are Plastic Bags Non-biodegradable
Plastic bags are non-biodegradable primarily due to their chemical structure. They are typically made from polymers, most commonly polyethylene, which consists of long chains of carbon and hydrogen atoms. These carbon-carbon bonds are exceptionally strong and resistant to natural breakdown processes.
Biodegradation relies on microorganisms like bacteria and fungi to decompose organic materials. These organisms possess enzymes that can break down the complex molecules found in natural substances, such as cellulose or proteins. However, they lack the enzymatic machinery to effectively break down the synthetic polymers in plastic bags.
Here’s a breakdown of why this occurs:
- Synthetic origin:
- Plastic polymers are artificial materials created by humans, unlike natural substances. Microorganisms have not evolved to efficiently degrade these novel compounds.
- Strong chemical bonds:
- The carbon-carbon bonds in polyethylene are very stable, making them difficult to break. This stability makes the plastic very durable, which is great for its intended purpose but terrible for the environment.
- Lack of recognition:
- Microorganisms do not recognize plastic polymers as a food source. They cannot break down the plastic molecules into usable nutrients.
Instead of biodegrading, plastic bags undergo photodegradation, where sunlight breaks them down into smaller and smaller pieces called microplastics. These microplastics persist in the environment for extended periods, posing a threat to ecosystems and wildlife. Microplastics can be ingested by animals, infiltrating the food chain and causing harmful effects.
Why Are Plastic Bags Harmful to the Environment?
Plastic bags harm the environment through several avenues. Their non-biodegradable nature leads to long-term pollution, filling landfills and littering natural landscapes. They break down into microplastics, which contaminate soil and water, entering the food chain and harming wildlife.
Animals often mistake plastic bags for food, leading to ingestion and internal injuries or death. They also contribute to drainage blockages, causing flooding. Their production uses fossil fuels, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions and climate change. Furthermore, they are often lightweight and easily carried by the wind, spreading pollution over vast areas.
How Many Years Does It Take for a Plastic Bag to Decompose?
Determining the decomposition time of plastic bags is a complex task, as they are affected by a variety of environmental conditions. While typical estimates suggest that they may take 10 to 20 years to decompose, some sources indicate that in certain circumstances, the decomposition time may be longer. What’s more, plastic bags don’t break down in the traditional, complete way into their natural elements. Instead, they undergo photodegradation. Sunlight gradually breaks them down into tiny fragments, called microplastics. Shockingly, these microplastics may persist in the environment for hundreds of years.
Environmentally-Friendly Alternatives to Plastic Bags
In the pursuit of reducing plastic waste, there are several excellent alternatives to traditional plastic bags.
Biodegradable Pouches are a remarkable option. Made from materials that nature can break down, they don’t linger in the environment for centuries like plastic bags. These pouches, often crafted from plant-based polymers, decompose relatively quickly, minimizing their ecological footprint.
Compostable Pouches are equally impressive. They not only break down but also transform into nutrient-rich compost that can be used to fertilize soil. This closed-loop cycle makes them an ideal choice for those aiming for a truly sustainable lifestyle.
Recyclable Pouches offer a practical solution. They can be recycled and turned into new products, reducing the demand for virgin materials. This helps conserve resources and cut down on energy consumption during production.
PCR Pouches (Post-Consumer Recycled) are made from recycled materials, giving a new life to waste that would otherwise end up in landfills. By choosing these pouches, we actively contribute to reducing plastic waste.
Kraft Paper Pouches are a classic yet highly effective alternative. Kraft paper is a strong and sustainable material. These pouches are biodegradable, recyclable, and often have a natural, earthy aesthetic. They are great for packaging various items, from food to small goods.
By opting for these alternatives, we can significantly reduce our reliance on plastic bags and make a positive impact on the environment.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the non-biodegradability of plastic bags is a complex issue rooted in multiple aspects. By making a conscious choice to use reusable bags and truly biodegradable alternatives, and raising awareness of the severity of this problem, we can work together to mitigate the damage that non-biodegradable plastic bags are doing to the environment. Every step counts in our journey to protect the planet for future generations.
If you want to know more about biodegradable bags, please contact our professional team.