So let’s break it down a bit from a sustainability standpoint first…
Band-Aids are most often made from PLASTIC. The adhesive sheet of a band-aid is usually made from either PVC, polyethylene, or polyurethane, so they are a single use plastic item that does NOT break down. Why don’t these tiny pieces of thin plastic ever biodegrade?
Polyurethane is petroleum-based and is the same compound found in the chemical-laden mattresses, pillows, carpet padding, and furniture.
Polyethylene is considered a “safe” plastic, however the process of manufacturing it requires industrial chemicals including benzene, butane, and vinyl acetate, making the process itself far from eco-friendly.
The third substance often used to make band-aids is PVC (polyvinyl chloride aka vinyl) which is the most toxic plastic for human health and environmental health. Vinyl releases a plethora of dangerous chemicals… most frequently, dioxins and lead.