Introduction to the abiotic degradation of carbon chain polymers. An overview of biodegradable polymers and biodegradation of polymers. Techniques and mechanisms of polymer degradation. Biodegradation of aliphatic polyesters. Properties and applications of bacterially derived polyhydroxyalkanoates. Starch-polymer composites. The science and engineering of polymer composite degradation. Ethylene-carbon monoxide copolymers. Photo-biodegradable plastics. Photodegradable plastics in agriculture. The role of degradable polymers in agricultural systems. Plastics and the environment. Degradable polymers in waste and litter control. Index.