What is the differences between biodegradable and compostable plastic?
All compostable products are biodegradable, but not all biodegradable products are compostable. Compostable materials break down completely into their basic parts (water, carbon dioxide, and biomass). They will break down in a timely manner at a rate consistent with similar organic materials and will not release harmful residue or toxins.
Both products are biodegradable and the way they compost creates nutrient-rich compost, but they achieve it in different ways.Home composting produces nutrient-rich compost in your backyard, using a vessel like a traditional compost bin, tumbler or vermi compost (worm farm).
Industrial composting, it is composted by creating the necessary conditions in industrial compost facilities.
Advantages of Biodegradable Plastics
Less Waste
It’s estimated there are over five trillion pieces of plastic in our oceans. Plastics also make up 13% of our current waste, which translates as roughly 32 million tons each year.
No More Harmful Chemicals
Over the cycle of their decomposition, traditional plastics can release pollutants such as methane or bisphenol A (BPA), which can harm both the environment and human health.
Recyclable
Apart from taking less time to break down when discarded, biodegradable plastics can also be recycled and are non-toxic since they contain no chemicals or toxins compared to other types of plastics that can emit harmful chemicals, especially if burned.
Carbon Emission Reduction
One of the advantages related to the use of biodegradable plastics is the minimal emission of carbon in the air during the process of manufacturing bioplastics. As opposed to the normal manufacturing of plastics that create four tons of emissions, bioplastics only emit approximately 8 tons of carbon that add to the greenhouse effect and global warming.
Consumes Less Energy
The manufacturing process of biodegradable plastics requires less amount of energy and does not need fossil fuels to be recycled. Conversely, traditional plastics demand more energy in production and at the same time requires the burning of fossil fuel. Since less energy is needed, more bioplastics can be produced while there is less pollution in the environment.
