"Polymer" is a generic term that means repeating units of the same type. Biomolecules, for example, include proteins (polymers of amino acids), DNA (polymers of nucleic acids) and starches (polymers of sugars). Although you do not specify I am guessing you refer to polymers that are types of synthetic molecules derived mostly from petroleum products. These include synthetic rubber, polyester, nylon, and various types of plastics. It is possible to create types of synthetic polymers that are biodegradable, but manufacturers of goods made from these substances generally want their products to last for a long time. For example, polychloroethene is used to make electrical insulation and water pipes. These have to be stable for long periods of time. The ability to biodegrade would be a plus for some of the plastics currently overflowing landfills, such as plastic bags. Many plastic bags are now marketed as being biodegradable, but conditions deep in landfills may not actually allow that to happen.
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