Decomposition Rates

Description:
The Time It Takes Litter to Decompose:

  • Paper: 2–5 months
  • Orange peels: 6 months
  • Milk Cartons: 5 years
  • Cigarette Filters: 10–12 years
  • Plastic Bags: 10–20 years
  • Leather Shoes: 25–40 years
  • Nylon Cloth: 30–40 years
  • Plastic Containers: 50–80 years
  • Aluminum: 80–100 years
  • Plastic Foam: NEVER

Source: Champaign Public Library Fugitive Facts
Date Last Revisited: 11/20/88