3.1.3- Biotechnology

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Biodegradable Polymers

These are made from natural resources that decompose in the environment. This is done by enabling microorganisms in the environment to break down the molecular structure to create an inert material.

Bipol- this is the first biodegradable polymer in the UK. It is used to make bottles and credit cards. It is made by fermenting glucose and carbohydrates that collect in plant cells. This is separated from the bacteria and extracted as white powder. It is stable in the air however not in carbon dioxide and water meaning that it will decompose in soil and water beds. It also decomposes rapidly without oxygen.

Innocent TM Eco-bottle- this is made using polylactic acid which comes from corn starch. However only 10% of UK recycling plants separate this from normal HDPE and PET bottles.

Pros and Cons:

✓ Fully biodigradable in sustainable places

✓ Reduces time in landfill

✓ Doesn't add more carbon as it is taken from the eco-system

X Releases CO2 at the end of its life

X Expensive and not widely produced

X May be less energy efficient than synthetic materials

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Genetic Engineering (GE) For The Paper and Board Industry

This is done to increase the wood pulp yield on trees. It is done through genetic manipulation which is where genes from one plant are put into another. This allows us to alter the biological characteristics of the trees.

Pros and Cons:

✓ Faster growing trees

✓ Reduced linen fibre strength meaning less chemicals are needed to create paper

✓ Resistant to trees and insect attacks which increase the quality of the paper and board

X Unknown side effects

X Rapid growth means intensive rotation. This increases demand for water and decreases the opportunities for nutrient recycling

X Escape of modified genes into the natural ecosystem