Corn plastic typically takes 90 days to biodegrade, but only under specific conditions within a commercial composting facility.
Corn plastic packaging and items are marketed as environmentally friendly due to their biodegradable, carbon-neutral, and compostable nature. However, achieving this biodegradation requires a specialized environment.
Key Factors for Corn Plastic Biodegradation
To break down effectively, corn plastic needs particular conditions that are generally not available in a typical home composting setup:- Timeframe: It can take approximately 90 days for corn plastic to fully decompose.
- Composting Facility: Biodegradation must occur within a commercial composting facility. These facilities are designed to create and maintain optimal conditions for decomposition.
- High Temperatures: A crucial requirement for corn plastic to break down efficiently is exposure to high temperatures, which are characteristic of commercial composting operations.
- Not for Home Composting: Unlike some organic waste, corn plastic cannot be simply composted at home. Residential compost piles typically do not reach or sustain the necessary high temperatures and controlled environments required for its decomposition.
In summary, while corn plastic offers a more sustainable alternative to traditional plastics, its complete biodegradation is contingent upon proper disposal in industrial composting facilities where the right temperature and environmental controls are maintained.
