Biodegradable plastics - Oxford Materials advises the European Commission

The European Commission's Group of Chief Scientific Advisors has issued a new Scientific Opinion: 'Biodegradability of Plastics in the Open Environment'.

Chaired by Professor Nicole Grobert of this department, the report provides recommendations as to the specific applicability of biodegradable plastics, which require certain conditions before they degrade.

Professor Grobert stated:

The biodegradation of plastics is a complex process that depends on both the material itself and the conditions of the environment in which it takes place.  Assessing which specific biodegradable plastic applications can offer environmental benefits requires careful consideration'.

To download a copy of the report, please click on this link: Scientific Opinion on biodegradability of plastics.

To read the University's coverage of this important report, please see the Science Blog.