In Australia, two companies are now selling biodegradable bandages as a more eco-friendly alternative to traditional plastic bandages. Nutricare developed bandages made from 100 percent certified bamboo fibers, gauze components like coconut oil, charcoal, and aloe vera. Everyday Good developed a biodegradable bandage that decomposes within four years and made from 15 percent recycled materials.
Traditional band-aids do not biodegrade at all as they are made of plastic. They are often made of petroleum-based polyurethane or PVC, or polyvinyl chloride, one of the most toxic plastics, according to Green Matters. Because they stick on our skin and often come loose, especially when swimming in the ocean or when out and about, they can remain in the environment for hundreds of years. A biodegradable band-aid, however, allows the bandage to decompose and not harm the environment or our health.