Now if only the credit card debt would magically dissolve as quickly as Discover’s new earth friendly “Bio” card, we would all apply for our maximum credit limit immediately! But seriously, this appears to be a good thing that Discover has embarked upon, and we can only hope that other companies follow suite in reducing the impact of waste in our environment.

The new card, released by Discover Financial Services at the end of last year, purportedly breaks down when exposed to microorganisms such as those present in landfills. According to Discover, the green credit card is made of biodegradable PVC, 99 percent of which can be absorbed back into the environment given the “right conditions”. Complete degradation is expected to be achieved over a nine month to five year period. Discover further promises that the bio card will leave no toxic residue during the degradation process.

Credit card companies capitalizing on consumer interest in green products? Maybe. Does it make you want to run out and add another card to your collection? Not so fast – perhaps we better evaluate the benefits and fees, as well as individual needs, at this juncture.

The card appears to be very similar to the “Discover More” card, a rewards based card with no annual fee. Here is a summary of what is advertised for that card on the Discover Website:

• Help protect the planet with the new biodegradable Discover Card
• Card breaks down 99% within five years in landfill conditions
• Earn more cash in more ways than anyone else(SM)*
• Unlimited cash rewards, automatically
• Up to 20% Cashback Bonus when you shop online
• Double rewards with more than 100 Cashback Bonus Partners
• Customer service in less than a minute, anytime
• 0% Intro APR for 6 months on Purchases, 12 months on Balance Transfers

Applicants can even choose from six different designs for their personal credit card, each bearing the green symbol which clues others in that are an “eco-conscience” consumer as you whip out the card. Like a traditional card, Discover promises it is durable enough to stay intact through normal wear and tear for at least four years.

So readers, does this card appeal to you, or should it go straight to the landfill?

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