What are Oxo-Degradable Bags?

Oxo-biodegradable plastic degrades due to exposure to the elements (sunlight, heat, and microorgranisms). Two years is an estimation based on the average conditions. The actual amount of time required to degrade a bag will be longer or shorter depending on the amount of exposure.

We believe this is an optimal situation. Oxo-biogradable plastic bags degrade fastest in the exact situation we want them to: when they become litter

Oxo-biodegradable plastic is made by blending a pro-degradent additive into the plastic during the extrusion process. The additive causes the molecular structure of plastic to break down when exposed to heat or sunlight. The plastic will eventually be in a state where it can be digested by microorganisms. At this point, the plastic will degrade at a faster rate until it has fully degraded into carbon dioxide, water, and biomass.

Oxo-biodegradable plastic, is often referred to as “degradable” plastic, since it does not require a biological process to degrade. Microorganisms will speed up the degradation process, but they’re not required. This gives oxo-biodegradation a distinct advantage over prior methods for degrading plastic.

The degradation time varies depending on the amount of exposure to degradation promoters (sunlight, heat, and microorganisms). This is an optimal situation for consumers. Oxo-biodegradable plastic degrades quickest in the exact situation we want it to: when it becomes litter. If the plastic is used properly it will last many years, but once it becomes litter it could degrade in under 12 months.

Because oxo-degradable plastics are only degradable – not biodegradable or certified compostable –after the bio-additives have broken down traditional plastics remain. Even if the small pieces are microscopic, the plastic still exists and can easily enter the environment. There are absolutely no benefits from using oxo-degradable plastics!

Degradable plastics often contain starch, or other bio-additives. These products may be marketed as “biodegradable”, “green”, or “environmentally friendly”, but will lack 3rd party certification of such claims.