AP Environmental Science

Answer: D - It would typically take 100 to 500 years for an aluminum can to decompose in a landfill.

Key Takeaway: It is currently estimated that metal items like aluminum and tin take about 100 to 500 years to decompose in a landfill. In comparison, food waste (fruit and vegetable) takes about 1 to 2 weeks; paper goods take 10 to 30 days; and cloth takes up to 1 year. The worst thing to put in a landfill, however, is plastic. It is believed that it will take plastic bags upwards of 1 million years to decompose. This is why you should always bring your own bags to the store. Reduce and reuse!