Problems with Polymers

Problems with Polymers

1. Most polymers are not biodegradable - they don't rot or break down.

   • This is useful, because products made from them last a long time.
   • It is also a problem because when polymers are thrown away, they do not rot.

2. Landfill sites

   • polymers are not biodegradable
   • they last for many years
   • we are running out of landfill sites

3. Burning

   • many polymers release toxic gases when they burn

4. Recycling

   • melting or breaking down polymers to make new objects

5. Biodegradable polymers

   • these are being developed
   • they will rot away in landfill sites