How Long Does It Take for Chewing Gum to Decompose?
How Long Does It Take for Chewing Gum to Decompose?
Chewing gum is a common litter item that can take years to decompose. The main ingredient in chewing gum is a synthetic rubber called polyisobutylene. This material is very resistant to degradation, and it can take decades or even centuries to break down in the environment.
| Scenario | Decomposition Time |
|---|---|
| Buried in a landfill | 25-100 years |
| Discarded on the ground | 5-10 years |
| In the ocean | Indefinite |
Why does it take so long for chewing gum to decompose?
There are a few reasons why chewing gum takes so long to decompose. First, the polyisobutylene in chewing gum is very resistant to breaking down. This is because the molecules in polyisobutylene are very tightly bound together. Second, chewing gum is often coated in a layer of wax or sugar, which further protects it from decomposition.
| Source | Impact |
|---|---|
| The Ocean Conservancy | Chewing gum is the second most common type of litter found on beaches. |
| Keep America Beautiful | Chewing gum costs taxpayers millions of dollars each year to clean up. |
| The National Audubon Society | Chewing gum can be harmful to wildlife, especially birds. |
How to reduce the environmental impact of chewing gum
There are a few things you can do to reduce the environmental impact of chewing gum. First, avoid chewing gum made with synthetic rubber. Instead, choose chewing gum made with natural ingredients, such as chicle or tree sap. Second, dispose of chewing gum properly. Do not spit it out on the ground or in the trash. Instead, wrap it in a tissue and throw it away in a garbage can.
Benefits of chewing gum with natural ingredients:
- Biodegradable: Chewing gum made with natural ingredients decomposes quickly in the environment.
- Less harmful to wildlife: Chewing gum made with natural ingredients is less likely to be harmful to animals.
- Better for your health: Chewing gum made with natural ingredients is often made with healthier ingredients than synthetic chewing gum.
How to dispose of chewing gum properly:
- Wrap it in a tissue. This will help to prevent the gum from sticking to the ground or to your hands.
- Throw it away in a garbage can. Do not spit it out on the ground or in the trash.
- Do not flush it down the toilet. Chewing gum can clog toilets and sewage systems.
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