Top 10: What are the longest lasting landfill items?

1. Glass bottles

Time to break down: one million years

2= Disposable nappies

Time to break down: 450 years

2= Plastic bottles

Time to break down: 450 years

4. Plastic bags

Time to break down: 200-500 years

5. Aluminium cans

Time to break down: 80-200 years

6. Rubber-soled shoes

Time to break down: 50-80 years

7. Tin cans

Time to break down: 50 years

8. Clothing

Time to break down: up to 40 years

9. Plastic film*

Time to break down: 20-30 years

*clingfilm, magazine wrappers, crisp packets, etc

10. Paper coffee cups

Time to break down: 20 years

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