Statement

Degradable Materials Hold Great Promise, But Not a Current "Solution" to Preventable Marine Litter

ARLINGTON, VA (September 22, 2009) – Researchers are sifting through samples collected from recent Project Kaisei sailings in the Pacific Ocean, hoping to better understand the nature, source and impact of marine litter, including plastics.  In a statement today, the American Chemistry Council said:

“Everyone agrees that plastics don’t belong in our oceans.  Plastics belong in the recycling bin – they are simply too valuable to waste.

“Marine litter knows no borders, but America’s plastic makers are committed to finding innovative solutions to keeping our oceans clean.  The primary question all of us – researchers, beach goers, boaters, businesses, public officials – should ask ourselves is: what steps can we take to keep all kinds of litter out of our oceans in the first place?”

“Scientists, international organizations and activists have concluded that there is no single answer.  Most agree that recycling, coupled with tough litter abatement laws, well-run municipal waste management systems and behavioral changes, can help keep plastic and other materials out of our waste stream, off our beaches and away from our oceans.”

“However, one solution too often offered as a panacea is “degradable” plastics, likely based on the assumption they will “go away” in the ocean.  While degradable plastics have a role in certain applications, it’s important to remember one of the findings of Project Kaisei: there is no “away” in our oceans.  Litter of any kind carelessly tossed in our oceans has a negative impact.”

“Studies by the nonprofit group Keep Los Angeles Beautiful report that the perception of biodegradability increases the likelihood that an item will actually be littered. Degradable materials do not simply fall apart in our oceans.  A study by the California Integrated Waste Management Board found that all sorts of “oxo”-degradable, “UV”-degradable, sugar cane derived, corn starch derived and other degradable materials don’t “go away” in our oceans.  The study’s conclusion – ‘Additional research is needed to better understand the biodegradation of compostable and biodegradable polymers in the marine environment’ – is a mastery of understatement.”

“This job is too big and too important for any single group to handle.  America’s plastic makers believe that the place to start is to focus on the cause of the problem.  By working together through strong regional and global partnerships and getting serious about recycling and accountability for litter, we can reverse this preventable scourge on our oceans.”

Learn more about marine debris.

About the Plastics Department
The American Chemistry Council’s Plastics Department represents leading companies dedicated to providing innovative solutions to the challenges of today and tomorrow through plastics.  Ongoing innovations in plastics have led to medical advances and safety equipment that make our lives better, healthier and safer every day.  ACC members are finding innovative ways for plastics to help save energy, reduce green house gas emissions and decrease waste.  Since plastics are a valuable resource, too valuable to waste, the Plastics Department is at the forefront of efforts to reduce litter through increased access to recycling, advancements in recycling technology, and public education. To learn more, please visit www.americanchemistry.com/plastics.