Biodegradable materials, such as disposable cups and utensils, are broken down in landfills by microorganisms that then produce methane, says Dr Morton Barlaz, co-author of a paper describing the research, and professor and head of NC State’s Department of Civil, Construction, and Environmental Engineering. ‘Methane can be a valuable energy source when captured, but is a potent greenhouse gas when released into the atmosphere,’ he adds.
And the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimate...
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