 In addition , the large @-@ scale use of <unk> condoms has resulted in concerns over their environmental impact via <unk> and in <unk> , where they can eventually wind up in wildlife environments if not <unk> or otherwise permanently disposed of first . Polyurethane condoms in particular , given they are a form of plastic , are not biodegradable , and latex condoms take a very long time to break down . Experts , such as <unk> , recommend condoms be disposed of in a garbage receptacle , as <unk> them down the toilet ( which some people do ) may cause <unk> <unk> and other problems . Furthermore , the plastic and foil <unk> condoms are packaged in are also not biodegradable . However , the benefits condoms offer are widely considered to offset their small landfill mass . Frequent condom or <unk> disposal in public areas such as a parks have been seen as a persistent litter problem . 
