Oxo-degradable
Oxo-degradable (also known as oxo-biodegradable) plastics contain additives that cause them to break down into small plastic fragments (microplastics) under the influence of ultraviolet light and oxygen. These additives can be added to all types of plastics. Oxo-degradable plastics are mainly used in bags and pouches, and sometimes also in rigid plastic applications. When oxo-degradable plastics enter recycling streams, they degrade the quality of the recycled plastic. Therefore, they are considered a contaminant.