Differences Between Biodegradable, Compostable & Sustainable Products

A biodegradable material is not necessarily compostable, while a compostable material is always biodegradable.

Compostable means that a product is capable of breaking down into natural elements in a compost environment. As it has broken down into its natural elements, it makes no harm to the environment. Besides, compostable item does not leave toxic residue behind because it is already organic. Unlike compostable, certain biodegradable products can take several years to break down and in some cases even leave toxic waste behind.

When it comes to biodegradable products such as paper, some additional, undesirable by-products are often present in the decomposition process such as methane and inorganic compounds.

In short, compostable products are biodegradable, but with an added benefit. That is, when they break down, they release valuable nutrients into the soil, aiding the growth of trees and plants.

Many items labeled as “biodegradable” are not accepted by composting facilities because they take too long to break down and/or will not decompose entirely, disrupting the composting cycle.