U.S. Bank is jumping into the green market with the adoption of a biodegradable PVC bank card. The bioPVC, a polyvinyl chloride material similar to plastic, can degrade aerobically and anaerobically in landfills, or can be recycled.

The card is made of ethylene, from oil or natural gas. It then receives applications of material that allow it to break down under soil, water or compost conditions, like those found in a landfill. Microorganisms, responsible for breaking down all biodegradable materials, “eat” the hydrogen-carbon chain that binds PVC together. Then, oxygen, if available, or other gases complete the job. Soon, what is left is simple: oxygen, hydrogen and carbon dioxide. The card takes anywhere from nine months to five years to fully degrade, depending on the aerobic or anaerobic conditions.

U.S. Bank expects these eco-cards to be popular as the number of eco-conscious consumers continues to rise. The bank is also turning to other environmental activities to green the company. For example, they are participants in the PayItGreen effort, which customers and businesses about eco-friendly banking methods, like receiving electronic bank statements instead of paper.

This brings a whole new perspective to plastic money.