No, biodegradable plastic is generally not good for the ocean.
Understanding "Biodegradable" in the Context of the Ocean
The term "biodegradable" on plastic products can be misleading, especially when considering marine environments. It suggests the material will naturally break down over time, but this often depends heavily on specific conditions.
As referenced, "Many biodegradable plastics are not designed to break down in the natural environment, but rather under specific conditions, like industrial composters." These controlled environments have high temperatures, specific microbial activity, and humidity levels that are rarely found in the open ocean.
Why Biodegradable Plastics Harm Marine Life
When these types of biodegradable plastics enter the sea, they do not behave as intended. According to the reference, "So, when these types of biodegradable plastics end up in the sea, they may take a long time to degrade."
This means they can persist in the marine environment for extended periods, contributing to plastic pollution. Like traditional plastics, they can:
- Entangle marine animals: Leading to injury or death.
- Be ingested by marine life: Causing starvation, internal injuries, or introducing toxic substances into the food chain.
- Break down into microplastics: These tiny plastic particles are widespread and can be ingested by a vast range of organisms, from plankton to whales.
Therefore, while a plastic might be labeled "biodegradable," this label does not guarantee it will safely break down in the ocean's cold, saline environment with varying oxygen levels and microbial communities. Relying on current biodegradable plastics as a solution to ocean plastic pollution is often ineffective.
