Biodegradable and compostable are often used interchangeably, but they have distinct meanings. Let’s break it down:
Biodegradable:
When something is biodegradable, it breaks down quickly and safely into harmless compounds, thanks to naturally occurring microorganisms like bacteria and fungi. This includes items like soap, shampoo, and certain packaging materials. While there’s no set time frame, biodegradable objects range from papers to boxes, breaking down until they’re microscopic and consumable.
Compostable:
Compostable products break down into natural elements in a compost environment, posing no harm to the environment. This process typically takes about 90 days. Compostable undergo degradation by biological processes during composting, leaving behind CO2, water, inorganic compounds, and biomass, without any visible or toxic residue.
The Difference:
While all compostable material is biodegradable, not all biodegradable material is compostable. Biodegradable items may leave behind metal residue, whereas compostable materials create nutrient-rich humus ideal for plant growth. Compostable products enrich the soil when they break down, unlike certain biodegradable items that can take years and leave toxic waste behind.
Why It Matters:
Understanding the difference is crucial. Compostable items specifically enrich soil health and fertilize, while some biodegradable products can take years to break down and leave behind harmful residues. For instance, plant-based plastics labeled as biodegradable might not degrade as quickly without the right environmental conditions, posing similar risks to regular plastics.