Biodegradable v/s Compostable: Are they different?
You might have heard about terms like “Biodegradable” and “Compostable” but do you know they are different from each other? Don’t worry, today we will make you aware about these terms and why are they same yet different from each other.
Q. What are biodegradable materials?
Biodegradable materials are those that can be broken down into simpler substances by microorganisms, such as bacteria or fungi, over time. These substances are then absorbed back into the environment without causing harm. They are returned to the Earth without leaving any harmful residues.
- Composition: These materials are made from natural sources like plants, animals or microorganisms.
- Decomposition: These materials break down into simpler substances with the help of microorganisms like bacteria and fungi. This process can occur in any type of environment like landfills, ocean, and soil.
- Decomposition Time: They decompose depending upon various factors such as material decomposition, environmental conditions, etc. Depending upon the factors, these materials can break down within weeks while some may take months or even years to break down.
- Products: Biodegradable bags, packaging, plates, trays, bowls, lids, containers, etc.
- Benefit over compostable product: They don’t require any specific conditions for decomposition as they can break down into any type of environment.
Q. What are compostable materials?
Compostable materials are those that not only break down into simpler substances but also turn into nutrient- rich compost under some specific conditions. These conditions may involve adequate amount of heat, moisture, oxygen level, etc. Compostable products produce humus during decomposition which is the richest and most important part of soil.
- Composition: These materials are primarily derived from organic matter such as Sugarcane Bagasse, CornStarch, Areca Palm, etc.
- Decomposition: Compostable materials break down into compost which is rich in nutrients. Their decomposition process occurs in composting facilities or home compost bins.
- Decomposition Time: They can be decomposed within a specific timeframe under ideal conditions like material type, composting method, etc. Their decomposition time can range from a few weeks to several months. It depends upon the specific conditions.
- Products: Compostable trays, plates, bowls, clam shells, etc.
- Benefits over biodegradable products: They offer a more controlled and efficient decomposition process, which results in producing nutrient- rich compost.
Q. How are they relatable?
“All compostable items are biodegradable, but all biodegradable items are not compostable”. What does this mean?
It means that all the compostable items are like biodegradable items since these items break down naturally into the environment. But unlike compostable items, not all biodegradable items are designed to break down into compost under specific conditions.
Conclusion
In a nutshell, biodegradable and compostable items are same yet different. Their common goal is to reduce waste and their carbon footprint, making them closely related to each other. Their decomposition process and composition makes them different from each other. Compostable products definitely produce humus when decomposed in composting facilities or compost bins while biodegradable products may produce humus only if provided suitable factors.
At EarthyPack, we provide tableware made from materials like Sugarcane Bagasse and Areca Palm which are both biodegradable and compostable. Both our products i.e. areca palm and sugarcane bagasse has potential to create humus during the biodegradation process.
Take a step towards eco- friendliness, opt for Compostable and Biodegradable alternatives.
