Question

Why do natural polymers not pose as much of an issue in landfills as synthetic polymers?

Natural polymers are cheap to recycle, and synthetic polymers are expensive to recycle.
Natural polymers are expensive to recycle, and synthetic polymers are cheap to recycle.
Natural polymers are not biodegradable, and synthetic polymers are biodegradable.
Natural polymers are biodegradable, and synthetic polymers are not biodegradable.

Answer 1

Natural polymers are biodegradable, and synthetic polymers are not biodegradable.

This is the primary reason why natural polymers do not pose as much of an issue in landfills compared to synthetic polymers. Natural polymers, such as those found in materials like starch and cellulose, can break down naturally over time through microbial activity, leading to less accumulation and environmental impact. In contrast, many synthetic polymers, like plastics, can persist in the environment for hundreds of years without breaking down, contributing to pollution and landfill issues.