Chewing gum’s environmental journey continues long after its flavor fades. Its persistence in nature poses a growing challenge, contributing to widespread environmental concerns. This article explores how long gum remains in the environment and the scientific reasons for its longevity.
Chewing Gum’s Environmental Lifespan
Modern chewing gum does not biodegrade in the natural environment. Estimates for its decomposition range widely, from 5 to 1,000 years, with common figures suggesting it can take 20 to 500 years to break down. Discarded gum remains in our surroundings for generations, primarily fragmenting into smaller pieces rather than fully decomposing and contributing to microplastic pollution.
The Science Behind Gum’s Persistence
Chewing gum’s persistence stems from its primary component: the gum base. Modern gum bases are predominantly made from synthetic polymers, which are essentially plastics. These synthetic materials include substances like polyisobutylene, polyvinyl acetate, polyethylene, and butyl rubber, found in products like adhesives, tire tubes, and other everyday plastics.
Microorganisms in soil or water cannot break down the complex chemical structures of these synthetic polymers. Unlike organic materials that decompose naturally, these man-made rubbers resist microbial action. The strong covalent bonds within these long polymer chains contribute to the gum’s elasticity and chewiness, and also make it highly resistant to natural degradation. This fundamental difference in composition is why chewing gum poses a significant and long-lasting environmental challenge.
Environmental Impact of Discarded Gum
Discarded chewing gum is a widespread form of litter with various negative consequences. It often ranks as the second most common type of urban waste after cigarette butts. An estimated 80% to 90% is not disposed of properly, ending up on sidewalks, streets, and public furniture. This creates an aesthetic blight, staining public spaces and requiring costly and labor-intensive cleanup efforts. For instance, local authorities in the UK reportedly spend over £60 million annually on gum removal.
Beyond visual pollution and cleanup costs, discarded gum can harm wildlife. Animals may mistake gum for food, leading to ingestion that can cause internal blockages, digestive problems, or even death. Its sticky nature can also mat in the fur or feathers of animals, restricting their movement. As gum fragments into microplastics, these tiny particles can enter waterways and ecosystems, potentially affecting aquatic life and ultimately moving up the food chain.
Responsible Gum Disposal and Innovations
Addressing the issue of chewing gum pollution requires both responsible disposal practices and the development of alternative products. Proper disposal is straightforward: used gum should always be wrapped in paper or tissue and placed in a trash can. Some public areas also feature designated gum disposal bins, which further aid in collection.
Innovations in chewing gum composition offer a promising path forward. Several companies now produce biodegradable chewing gums using natural ingredients, such as chicle, a natural latex derived from the sapodilla tree, or other plant-based polymers. These alternatives can decompose within weeks or months, significantly reducing their environmental footprint. Furthermore, some initiatives are exploring ways to recycle discarded synthetic gum, transforming it into new products like rubber flooring, providing a second life for this persistent material.