[at-l] AT questions

[greyowl at rcn.com (greyowl@rcn.com)]

Biodegrablity is not an issue for any detergent.  The problem 
occurs when the detergent contains phosphates which causes 
algae blooms.  Detergents are composed of sodium salts of 
fatty acid and there are bacteria all over the world that 
just loves the stuff.  Just don't pour your wash water in a 
stream, pour it on the ground.  Soil bacteria are much more 
effective

Having said that, some of the addatives may cause problems.  
I cannot imagine how Ivory would cause any problems.

Bob Dudley
AKA Grey Owl
Who also worked as a microbiologist
>
>"...has anyone used Bronners peppermint or almond soap as 
their only trail soap, shampoo, laundry, dishes?  are their 
better lighter options?"
>
>I use nothing but a sliver of Ivory soap for everything. 
I've never seen a hostel with shampoo, other than bottles 
left by other hikers. Ivory soap works as shampoo, though 
hard water diminishes it a bit for that purpose and others. 
Before a chorus of LNT messages, I have seen no evidence that 
Ivory is either more or less biodegradeable than Bronners, 
and I've been looking and asking for years.
>
>Weary
>
> 
>
>
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