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because the plastic synthetic polymers are based on hydrocarbons, the polymers do not decompose easly.

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Q: Why do most plastics remain in landfills for a long time?
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Related questions

What types of plastics cannot be recycled?

the only plastic that i know of that can't be recycled is something called thermo-heated plastic


What do landfills hurt the most?

Landfills hurt the oceans and lakes the most. When stuff leak from the landfills into the oceans or lakes it kills the fish and plants that live in the water.Brenda Clinton


What goes into landfills?

most of the garbage in a landfill come from plastics like water bottles, milk jugs, etc. Even though these things should be recycled, the majiority end up in landfills.


Why don't we make all bicycles from plastics?

Because metals are still so cheap to produce, and have such good mechanical properties that they remain the most viable choice for most bikes.


Are most plastics biodegradable?

No. Most plastics are made of compounds and polymers that are not metabolized or degraded by most organisms, although some special organisms have been developed to attack certain plastics. Most plastics are degraded by sunlight.


How many landfills are in Pennsylvania?

Most big towns would have a landfill and big cities would have several landfills.


Why do you need to segregate your waste?

Some trash can decompose, which is what landfills want most, so that the material can be absorbed into the soil. However, some materials, like metals and plastics, don't really decompose like that. As such, it's good to separate those into recyclables.


Is most garbage biodegradable?

No, that is why it goes to landfills and is not recycled.


How do most cities get rid of their garbage?

Most cities bury their trash in landfills.


Is a plastic cup organic or inorganic?

All plastics, except silicone plastics, are organic.


Where does most of your waste en up?

Landfills, where the waste is then incinirated.


How long does it take a plastic cup to break down?

Most plastics break down more quickly when exposed to sunlight than when buried. The exact time will depend on the type of thickness of the plastic. Some plastics are being made now that breakdown in about 6 months, others may take 10 years or more.