Discover Financial Services has announced the introduction of the only biodegradable credit card available in the US market. The new Biodegradable Discover® More Card is made from 99% biodegradable PVC, which allows 99% of the card’s plastic to safely be absorbed into the soil of exposed landfills. The card will break down in water, soil, compost or wherever microorganisms are present and is expected to degrade completely within five years.

“The biodegradable Discover Card is another way for environmentally conscious consumers to do their part to help protect our planet,” said Kelly Tufts, director of marketing planning & strategy at Discover Financial Services.

This announcement is part of Discover’s commitment to help fight climate change and encourage responsible resource use. Discover also encourages its customers to help save paper by enrolling in paperless statements. In 2008, Discover saved more than an estimated 4.6 million pounds of paper.

Existing cardmembers can request the card directly through Discover Card’s customers service. The new biodegradable card is identified by a biodegradable symbol located on the back of the card. The biodegradable card still provides the same best-in-class features and benefits that all Discover Card cash rewards cards include.