Saving the earth? Biodegradable plastics can actually cause harm, says Hong Kong green group
- Research by The Green Earth found biodegradable plastic products could be worse than conventional ones if not disposed of properly
- They have specific conditions for decomposition, many of which might not be achievable in Hong Kong
Hong Kong consumers who choose biodegradable plastic products to aid a green cause might end up causing more damage to nature.
Local environmental group The Green Earth sounded the warning after its research found biodegradable plastic products, if not disposed of properly, could have worse consequences than their conventional counterparts.
Biodegradable plastics refer to a broad range of products made using materials with natural origins such as plant starch and cellulose, or ones treated with chemical additives to enable them to decompose faster.
Each type requires specific conditions for decomposition, such as composting, exposure to sunlight, microorganisms or a high level of oxygen. But The Green Earth suggested most conditions might not all be achievable in Hong Kong.
The environmental group found that over half of the so-called degradable products sold by suppliers recommended by the Environmental Protection Department (EPD) were not biodegradable, while all 10 products it had examined did not provide instructions regarding post-use disposal.