How to Choose a Bioplastic Trash Bag?

Choosing a bioplastic trash bag may seem like an easy choice for environmentalists. But, the reality is that there are many factors to consider when choosing an eco-friendly garbage bag.

The first important factor is how the trash bag is made. Regular trash bags are typically manufactured from petrochemicals. These petrochemicals make them resilient and resistant to breakdown by sunlight, air and water.
There are also biodegradable plastics that are created from renewable resources, such as algae and seaweed. These plastics break down more quickly in the presence of air and sunshine.

These biodegradable plastics are often marketed as compostable. But, there is some debate as to whether or not they are truly biodegradable.
Some studies have shown that these plastics do not fully decompose.
While this is a good thing for the environment, it also means that these biodegradable bags are not compatible with traditional plastic recycling streams. When biodegradable and recycled plastics are mixed together, the biodegradable bags contaminate the other materials.