Question 11

Consumer access to composting facilities highlights a difficulty associated with the use of PLA.

The author discusses consumer access to composting facilities to emphasize a significant challenge related to the use of PLA as a packaging material. Specifically, the lack of access to suitable composting facilities limits the practicality and effectiveness of PLA's compostable nature.

A) the costs associated with using compostable materials

This option is incorrect because the extract does not mention costs related to compostable materials. Instead, it focuses on the accessibility of composting facilities, which is a logistical issue rather than a financial one.

B) a difficulty associated with the use of PLA

This option is correct as it accurately reflects the author's intent to highlight that while PLA is compostable in theory, the lack of consumer access to necessary composting facilities poses a real difficulty in utilizing this material effectively.

C) a question about the renewability of certain resources

This option is incorrect since the extract discusses PLA's derivation from renewable resources but does not raise questions about renewability. The main focus is on composting access and the practical challenges it presents.

D) the ethical rationale for using PLA

This option is incorrect as the extract does not delve into the ethical considerations of using PLA. Instead, it centers on the practical issues tied to composting, which detracts from any ethical arguments that could be made.

Conclusion

The correct answer, B, effectively captures the essence of the author's discussion regarding PLA and consumer access to composting facilities. Options A, C, and D fail to address the primary concern of accessibility and practicality, which is crucial for understanding the challenges posed by compostable materials like PLA.