The IK Industrievereinigung Kunststoffverpackungen e. V. has taken a critical stance towards oxo-degradable plastics with the publication „Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on oxo-degradable plastics“.
The publication was prompted by media reports and numerous enquiries from IK member companies and customers in the plastics packaging industry. The topic is also of international importance, as there is already a legal ban on „oxo-degradable“ plastics in France, for example.
Clarify designations
The IK intends to objectify the discussion by presenting the key facts. For example, the FAQs point out that „oxo-degradable plastics“ fulfil the requirements for a Do not fulfil complete biodegradability requirements. From the point of view of the IK Bioplastics Working Group, the terms „oxo-fragmentable“ or „thermo-fragmentable„ or „photofragmentable plastics“ are more appropriate, as this is not a complete degradation, but a degradation process. Fragmentation of plastics to visible or invisible pieces of plastic.
The IK also draws attention to the fact that the fragmentation of products made from „oxo-degradable plastics“ is the current problem of the input of „Microplastics“ into waterways and oceans. Recycling is also impaired by „oxo-degradable“ plastics.
[infotext]The FAQs were published in the IK Bioplastics Working Group which deals with all questions relating to packaging and films made from bioplastics. The FAQs are available for download at http://www.kunststoffverpackungen.de/publikationen.[/infotext]
