applies
to plastic which undergoes significant changes in its
chemical structure when exposed to specific conditions
in the environment, resulting in a loss of its properties
and which can be measured by standard methods, over a
given period of time. (Note: the greater category of degradable
plastics includes oxo-degradable, biodegradable, and compostable
plastics.)
Oxo-degradable
applies
to a plastic containing an additive, which will first
undergo degradation when exposed to sunlight (UV rays),
heat and/or mechanical stress. The residues thereafter
being biodegradable.
Biodegradable
applies
to a degradable plastic which undergoes degradation when
exposed to microorganisms naturally found in the environment.
(Note: when the process involves the presence of oxygen,
the residues of this biodegradation are carbon dioxide,
water, inorganic compounds, and biomass)
Compostable
applies
to a plastic which undergoes a biological degradation
process during composting, producing CO2, water, inorganic
compounds and biomass at a rythm comparable to that of
other known compostable mater, and generating no visible
or identifiable toxic residue.
