Researchers developing plastics that can be composted

MercuryNews.com (Silicon Valley)
By Sandy Bauers

Philadelphia Inquirer
Posted: 03/05/2010 03:07:44 PM PST
Updated: 03/05/2010 03:40:02 PM PST

London researchers have come up with a new sugar-based polymer that they say could make food packaging and other disposable plastic items suitable for being composted at home along with the usual veggie peelings and other organic waste.

Right now, most "compostable" plastics have to be sent to industrial-size facilities. And they're often made from food crops such as corn, sugar beets and potatoes, creating ethical concerns in a world where many poor people go hungry.

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