From an environmental perspective, there are a number of issues surrounding other types of additives and resins. Both oxo-degradable and PLA products require an environment with oxygen, heat and moisture in order to begin breaking down. Neither of them truly breaks down in a landfill that does not have heat or moisture. Oxo-products are not recyclable and can leave behind harmful metals and chemicals in the polymer chain. PLA products are not recyclable and use up valuable food resources.

Check the fine print. These products claim biodegradability in terms of composting - not in landfills. (FAQ) The bottom line is most plastics, even the ones that can and should be recycled, end up in landfills. Our recycling rate has increased fivefold, yet 47% more trash ended up in landfills or incinerators in 2008 than in 1970. Something else to keep in mind is the small number of commercial composting sites for compostable plastics. Per EPA reports, in 2008, approximately 30 million tons of plastic ended up in US landfills, 13 million of which was plastic containers and packaging. Almost all of this plastic will sit in landfills for hundreds if not thousands of years. How can this be prevented? How can we minimize landfill space? Plastic products with Eco-One™ in them will enhance biodegradation in biologically active landfills.

One of ECOLOGIC's primary goals is to clarify this ever-increasing confusion or "greenwashing" currently in the marketplace. Businesses and consumers need to be informed in order to make the right decisions today.that will impact tomorrow's environment!

The comparison charts below highlight the differences!