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6.1.1 (Allocate 2 marks) Biodegradable materials refer to materials that can decompose completely and not leave any traces of toxins in our earth or water - NSC Design - Question 6 - 2019 - Paper 1
Question 6
6.1.1 (Allocate 2 marks) Biodegradable materials refer to materials that can decompose completely and not leave any traces of toxins in our earth or water. The bott... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:6.1.1 (Allocate 2 marks) Biodegradable materials refer to materials that can decompose completely and not leave any traces of toxins in our earth or water - NSC Design - Question 6 - 2019 - Paper 1
Step 1
6.1.1 (Allocate 2 marks)
Answer
Biodegradable materials are substances that can break down naturally and return to the earth without leaving harmful residues in the environment. In this context, the bottle depicted in FIGURE M is an example of a product made from seaweed. This material is biodegradable, contributing to the safety of ecosystems as it decomposes rapidly and does not harm aquatic or terrestrial life.
Step 2
6.1.2 (Allocate 4 marks)
Answer
Plastic straws exemplify single-use products that are non-biodegradable, significantly impacting our oceans and landfills by contributing to pollution. Similarly, fast food packaging made from polystyrene poses severe environmental challenges, as it is discarded readily and can persist in landfills for centuries. These materials are often ingested by wildlife, leading to fatal consequences, underscoring the urgent need for sustainable alternatives.