Terms like biodegradable or compostable are often used in sustainable industries. These are often mistakenly equated with each other. So what are the differences? Let’s give a brief definition of the similarly sounding but dissimilar words.
Complete Guide to Biodegradability and Compostability: Towards a Sustainable Future
In our journey towards a more sustainable future, the concepts of biodegradability and compostability play key roles. This article explores the deep meaning of these words, the process underlying the decomposition of materials, and the crucial role they can play in reducing environmental impact.
What Do We Mean by Biodegradable?
When we talk about a biodegradable material, we refer to its ability to be broken down into natural substances like carbon dioxide, water, and biomass, thanks to the action of microorganisms or enzymes. The fundamental characteristic of a biodegradable product is its transformation into simple molecules, eliminating the risk of leaving harmful particles in the environment.
However, the biodegradability of a product does not automatically imply its compostability. In fact, while a biodegradable material decomposes over time, to be considered compostable, it must meet specific time and condition criteria. An example is given by products that take up to 100 years for their complete degradation, classified as biodegradable but not necessarily compostable, unless they can decompose within 90 days under optimal conditions.
Towards Compostability: A Step Forward
Compostability, on the other hand, focuses on a product’s ability to fully degrade under controlled conditions, leaving no toxic residues and transforming into useful compost. The process occurs thanks to the action of microorganisms, with a particular focus on the speed of decomposition which, in an industrial composting facility, is accelerated by high temperatures.
A compostable product is one that decomposes within three months in an industrial environment, compared to the longer duration that can characterize home composting. This clearly distinguishes compostable products from those simply biodegradable, offering a more effective solution for recycling and reducing environmental impact.
Bio-Based Materials: A Sustainable Alternative
Bio-based materials represent another innovation in the field of sustainability. Derived from biomass, such as sugarcane or corn starch, they do not need to be composed entirely of natural resources but must contain at least 40% biomass. These materials, often used in composites to combine various ingredients, provide a sustainable alternative to conventional plastic, reducing dependence on fossil sources.
Regulations and Certifications
In Italy and the EU, there are standards like DIN EN 13432 that define compostability criteria, ensuring that products meet strict requirements to be considered as such. Certifications like NF T51-800:2015 testify to the compostability of products such as paper cups in home compost, highlighting a commitment to more sustainable practices.
A Sustainable Future is Possible
The understanding and adoption of biodegradable, compostable, and bio-based materials represent fundamental steps towards reducing environmental impact. Through the conscious choice of products that decompose sustainably, we can significantly contribute to the protection of our planet, promoting a future where innovation meets environmental responsibility.
