This is how long it takes 50 common items to decompose

The word “decompose” means “to separate into constituent parts or elements or into simpler compounds,” according to Merriam-Webster. Biodegradation is a similar process, but one that is defined by elements that can be broken down into innocuous parts by the action of living things like worms or microorganisms.

All non-living things are eventually broken down into simple molecules by the elements, microorganisms, and the ravages of time, but some things take significantly longer to decompose than others. When a person throws something in the garbage, the discarded item seems to be out of their life forever. However, the item’s journey to elemental breakdown or decomposition has just begun. Organic materials, like that leftover salad someone couldn’t quite finish, can return to the earth in a matter of days—but the plastic the salad was packaged in can stay put for thousands of years.

It’s important to note that many variables affect decomposition, and the timelines stated in this article are derived from averages or amalgamations based on large samples. Decomposition rates can vary dramatically based on factors like temperature, moisture, exposure to sunlight and the elements, the presence or lack of microorganisms, and whether the object is buried or exposed. Similarly, not all items—plastic bottles, for example—are made in the same way or with the same materials; so, they’re likely to have varied decomposition rates.

While decomposition rates are inherently inexact, it is a topic worth discussing considering that 14 million tons of plastic trash are dumped into the ocean every year. In a world overflowing with discarded things, knowing how long trash will hang around is important.

Stacker looked at how long it takes for some common things that people throw away to decompose. Continue reading on to find out for yourself below.

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