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The corn-based polymer called PLA (polylactide) is increasingly popular as a packaging material for foods and consumer goods for several reasons. Unlike conventional plastic packaging, which is made from petroleum, PLA is derived from a relatively inexpensive and renewable resource. It is also, in principle, compostable, meaning that it will break down under certain conditions into harmless natural compounds. However, few consumers have access to the sort of composting facilities that can create those conditions, which include maintaining temperatures of 140 degrees for ten consecutive days.

The author discusses consumer access to composting facilities most likely in order to emphasize

Rationale

a difficulty associated with the use of PLA.

The author highlights consumer access to composting facilities to underscore a significant challenge in utilizing PLA as a compostable material. Despite its advantages as a renewable and potentially eco-friendly option, the lack of accessible composting infrastructure limits its effectiveness in practice.

A (the costs associated with using compostable materials) YOUR ANSWER

While costs can be a factor in the adoption of compostable materials, the passage does not specifically address financial implications. Instead, the focus is on the practical difficulties consumers face regarding the necessary composting conditions for PLA, rather than economic considerations.

B (a difficulty associated with the use of PLA) CORRECT

This choice accurately reflects the author's intent, as they point out the challenge posed by the lack of access to proper composting facilities. This limitation illustrates that while PLA has potential environmental benefits, its effectiveness is hindered by the current infrastructure available to consumers.

C (a question about the renewability of certain resources) YOUR ANSWER

The passage mentions that PLA is derived from renewable resources, but it does not question the renewability of these resources. The focus is more on the practical implications of using PLA rather than debating its source or sustainability.

D (the ethical rationale for using PLA) YOUR ANSWER

Although ethical considerations regarding sustainability may be implicit in the discussion of PLA, the primary emphasis is on consumer access to composting facilities. The passage does not delve into ethical arguments, making this choice less relevant to the author's intent.

Conclusion

The discussion of consumer access to composting facilities highlights a significant challenge in the practical application of PLA as an environmentally friendly packaging material. While PLA offers a renewable alternative to petroleum-based plastics, its effectiveness as a compostable solution is limited by the lack of appropriate composting infrastructure. This emphasis on accessibility illustrates a key difficulty that consumers face when considering the use of PLA.

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