By Don Crossland

In the quest for a more sustainable future, terms like “biodegradable,” “compostable,” and “commercially compostable” are becoming increasingly commonplace. However, these labels, while all sounding environmentally friendly, signify different degradation processes and environmental impacts. 

Deciphering what each of these terms means can be a key step in making informed decisions about the products we choose to consume and how we manage their end-of-life. In this article, we will delve into the differences between these three categories, highlighting their benefits and drawbacks in our ongoing pursuit of sustainability.

Biodegradable

“Biodegradable” is a term that refers to materials that can be broken down over time by natural processes. Specifically, these materials decompose through the action of living organisms, primarily microorganisms like bacteria and fungi. It’s important to note that while all biodegradable materials will eventually return to nature, the length of time this process takes can vary widely. Some items might degrade within a few weeks, while others could take hundreds of years. This is largely dependent on the environmental conditions, such as temperature and humidity, and the composition of the material itself. 

It’s also worth mentioning that biodegradation doesn’t necessarily prevent environmental damage. Some biodegradable materials can release harmful substances – such as microplastics or methane gas –  into the environment, posing potential threats to wildlife and ecosystems. 

Proper disposal of biodegradable packaging and products requires a clear understanding of local waste management systems and guidelines. Biodegradable waste can be best disposed of in industrial composting facilities, where the conditions of heat and humidity are optimal for the decomposition process. In the absence of such facilities, home composting is also an option for items like food scraps and certain types of biodegradable packaging, though this might take a longer time. Additionally, biodegradable products should not be disposed of in recycling bins, as they can contaminate the recycling process.

Compostable

Compostable materials provide an eco-friendly alternative that merges the benefits of biodegradability with nutrient recycling. These materials decompose in a compost environment, converting into a nutrient-rich soil enhancer that can support plant growth. This process is possible due to the action of specific bacteria, fungi, and other composting organisms under certain conditions. Compostable products, therefore, not only disintegrate rapidly but also return beneficial materials to the environment, effectively closing the loop in the consumption cycle. 

While the term “compostable” often brings to mind food and yard waste, a variety of products, including certain types of packaging, are now designed to be compostable. This can significantly reduce the volume of waste heading to the landfill, while also decreasing the manufacturing demand for virgin materials. Decreased manufacturing, in turn, can save water, limit pollution, and decrease the need for fossil fuels. Thus, compostable materials can play a vital role in promoting a more circular economy and sustainable future.

While compostable materials are decidedly an environmentally friendly option, it is worth noting that many compostable products require very specific composting environments to break down fully. 

Composting at home is a practical approach to reprocessing compostable materials and contributes to minimizing landfill waste. To start, you would need a compost bin, which could be placed in your backyard or any outdoor space. 

Essential components for a successful compost pile include “brown” material such as leaves or branches for carbon, green material like vegetable scraps for nitrogen, and water. It’s crucial to maintain a good balance between green and brown material; typically a ratio of 3:1 is most efficient. Avoid composting meat, dairy, or diseased plants, as these items can attract pests or create unpleasant odors. 

Periodically, you should turn the compost pile to assist in aeration and expedite the composting process. Over several weeks to months, the material will decompose into rich, dark humus which can be utilized to enhance the fertility of your garden soil. 

Remember, while composting at home can manage a significant amount of compostable waste, not all compostable materials can be composted at home. Some require the higher temperatures of industrial composting facilities to break down effectively, which leads us to our third term, “commercially compostable.”

Commercially Compostable

“Commercially compostable” refers to materials that can break down into natural, non-toxic components but require the specific conditions found in industrial or commercial composting facilities to do so. These facilities maintain the ideal balance of heat, moisture, and aeration, achieving higher temperatures than home composting systems, thus supporting the breakdown of more complex compostable materials. 

Commercially compostable products include certain types of food packaging, serviceware, and bags, which may not decompose effectively in a backyard compost pile. However, they transform into nutrient-rich compost within a commercial composting facility, contributing to a sustainable closed-loop system where waste is not merely disposed of, but repurposed to enrich the soil. 

Despite the promising implications of commercially compostable materials, a key challenge lies in ensuring access to and efficient functioning of commercial composting facilities, as well as effective collection and segregation systems for compostable waste. Consequently, compostable items may end up in landfills where they don’t decompose as intended and instead contribute to methane emissions, much like their non-compostable counterparts.

Alternative Options

In lieu of compostable materials, several sustainable alternatives exist that are worth exploring. One such option is the use of recyclable materials. These items can be transformed into new products through industrial processes, helping reduce the demand for virgin resources and decrease waste generation. However, effective recycling requires robust waste segregation, collection, and processing systems.

Reusable items present another viable solution. By creating products designed for longevity and multiple uses, the overall consumption of resources can be significantly reduced. For instance, using reusable shopping bags or water bottles can have a substantial positive impact on waste reduction over time. 

Ultimately, a shift towards a zero-waste lifestyle, where waste generation is minimized through mindful consumption and re-use, offers an overarching solution. This way of life involves choosing products with minimal packaging, repurposing items, and composting food waste at home. While transitioning to a zero-waste lifestyle might seem daunting, each small step contributes to a larger collective impact.