The following are some of the issues that non-biodegradable wastes cause:

1. Microorganisms are unable to breakdown these compounds.
2. Dumping becomes a challenge as the quantity grows.
3. In the top trophic levels, non-biodegradable pollutants such as heavy metals may enter the food chain.
4. They may find their way into groundwater, causing soil infertility and pH disturbances.