BIODEGRADABLE PLASTICS

Plastic waste is a huge problem, taking centuries to degrade when discarded in landfills. Biodegradable plastics, however, could be a lifesaver. Using materials that break down in much shorter periods of time, the wastage problem could be dramatically reduced.

One idea comes from researchers at Harvard, who created a bioplastic from a substance found in shrimp shells. The substance is chitosan, a form of a polymer called chitin that’s responsible for the hardiness of shrimp shells. It is the second most abundant organic material on Earth, so there’s no short supply. It breaks down in just weeks, leaving behind nutrients that can support plant growth.

Another idea comes from the Indonesian company Avani, who have made plastic bags and other objects out of cassava starch, a shrub found in South America. Their resultant bioplastic is completely biodegradable and compostable. Looking indistinguishable from regular plastic bags, these might just be the future of shopping.

Avani’s eco bags, cups and other implements are made from cassava starch