Table of Contents
Definition
In the fight against plastic pollution and effective waste management, Compostable and Biodegradable are becoming promising solutions. But really, what are Compostable and Biodegradable and why are they important?
1.1. What is Compostable?
To be compostable, organic matter must be transformed into compost. This cycle happens organically, making CO2, water, inorganic mixtures, and biomass. The decay rate is viable with other natural materials, guaranteeing that no buildup is abandoned that is destructive to the climate.
This is a strategy for treating natural waste (for example, extra food, vegetables, tea grounds, espresso beans, sugarcane bagasse, and so on.) in conditions with ventilation. This cycle makes a completed item that is natural manure, wealthy in supplements (carbon, nitrogen), and reasonable for treating plants.
Composting organic waste can turn it into fertilizer or enzyme/microbial products that can be used to make soap, dishwashing liquid, surface cleaner, and other products.
Source: Internet
1.2. What is Biodegradable?
Biodegradable is the cycle by which microorganisms change plastic into normal parts. Catalysts discharged by microorganisms process the complicated construction of plastic atoms, transforming them into carbon dioxide (CO2) and water (H2O).
Nevertheless, this procedure proceeds very slowly. Bioactive additives have been developed by scientists to improve enzyme efficiency and speed. Because of that, the decay cycle of plastic happens all the more rapidly, making regular items like CO2, H2O, and biomass in a sensible measure of time.
Source: Internet
Thus, Compostable and Biodegradable are not just simple concepts but also practical solutions for minimizing human impact on the environment. Through these self-decomposition processes, we not only turn waste into a source of recycled fertilizer but also contribute to building a green and sustainable future.
Distinguish between Compostable and Biodegradable
With regards to Compostable and Biodegradable, disarray between these two ideas frequently causes mistaken assumptions about disintegration capacity and its effect on the climate. Together we will get familiar with the significant contrasts between Compostable and Biodegradable, from decay time, and disintegration capacity, to the best climate for this interaction.
2.1. Decomposition time
Compostable: Decomposes quickly under standard composting conditions (usually 90 – 180 days).
Biodegradable: Decomposes more slowly and can take years or even decades in natural environments.
2.2. Decomposition products
Compostable: Totally decays into natural compost, giving supplements to plants.
Biodegradable: Deteriorates into straightforward mixtures like CO2, water, and microbial biomass, however, doesn’t be guaranteed to shape natural humus.
2.3. Decomposition environment
Compostable: Best decomposes in a composting environment with controlled oxygen, temperature, and humidity.
Biodegradable: decomposes in a wide variety of settings, including natural settings like water, soil, and composting environments.
Below is a detailed comparison table of the two concepts Compostable and Biodegradable:
| Characteristic | Compostable | Biodegradable |
| Define | Decompose into compost | Decomposes into natural components |
| Decomposition time | Faster (usually from 90 days to several months) | Slower (many years) |
| Degradability | Absolutely, create organic humus | Not completely, maybe in pieces |
| Decomposition products | Compost (organic fertilizer) | Simple compounds (CO2, water, microbial biomass) |
| Decomposition environment | Controlled composting conditions (temperature, humidity, oxygen) | Natural environment (may or may not be controlled) |
| Examples | Banana peels, bean shells, leftovers, etc. | Bioplastic bags, wood, food containers made from sugarcane bagasse, coffee grounds, etc. |
Benefits of using compostable products
Using compostable products brings many great benefits to the environment and community:
3.1. Minimize solid waste
Solid waste is a burning problem affecting the world. According to estimates, each year the world generates more than 2 billion tons of solid waste. Compostable products will decompose into natural components in the environment, without creating long-term solid waste.
Source: Internet
3.2. Protect and enhance environmental sustainability
Solid waste, especially plastic waste, causes serious environmental pollution, affecting soil, water, and air.
Compostable products contribute to environmental protection by:
- Minimize the amount of solid waste discharged into the environment.
- Limit soil, water, and air pollution.
- Protect ecosystems and biodiversity.
Source: Internet
Every action, no matter how small, can make a huge difference in protecting our blue planet. Be a smart and responsible consumer, and join hands in building a waste-free world where compostable and biodegradable are not just words but concrete actions that benefit the environment and the environment for ourselves.
4. Challenges when using compostable products
Despite the many benefits, using compostable products still faces some challenges:
4.1. The cost is higher than traditional products
The expense of delivering compostable items is higher because of the utilization of exceptional materials and more intricate creation processes. This makes the selling cost of compostable items higher than customary items, making it challenging for shoppers to get to.
Source: Internet
4.2. Composting infrastructure is not yet developed
Some compostable products need special treatment from composting facilities, which are not widely developed, especially in rural areas. The lack of a compostable waste collection and treatment system makes the use of compostable products inconvenient.
4.3. Consumer awareness is limited
Many consumers do not clearly understand the benefits of compostable products or how to use them. Lack of information and propaganda makes consumers hesitant to use new products.
Source: Internet
Using biodegradable products is an essential solution to protect the environment. Addressing the challenges will help promote more widespread use of biodegradable products, contributing to environmental protection and sustainable development.
5. Application for production of compostable products
Compostable products are increasingly widely used in many fields, contributing to effective environmental protection. Here are some typical examples:
5.1. Food containers
There are currently a lot of different kinds of compostable food containers available in a variety of designs, sizes, and prices. Products that meet a customer’s requirements can be easily selected.
EQUO’s food containers, which are made entirely of sugarcane bagasse, are an eco-friendly alternative. In addition to the fact that they are sturdy and adaptable for bundling, they are likewise breathable, waterproof, and gloat, with the ability to amaze to decay completely in the common habitat within around a half year.
5.2. Compostable Straws
Rice, grass, sugarcane bagasse, coffee grounds, coconut, and other plant-based ingredients are used in the production of all EQUO compostable straw products. Furthermore, they are 100 percent liberated from plastic or other poisonous synthetic compounds. These straws can totally deteriorate in the climate in 3-6 months, safeguarding the climate and guaranteeing shopper security, which is appropriate for a wide range of beverages. Furthermore, EQUO is pleased to give every one of the above answers for supplant customary plastic straws, adding to diminishing how much inorganic waste, particularly plastic straws, can require a few hundred years to break down totally.
- Grass straws: Produced using grass, with a regular green tone, is a harmless to the ecosystem arrangement.
- Rice straws: Fabricated from 100 percent rice starch and custard starch. It is safe for health because it is biodegradable and colored with vegetable juice.
- Drinking straws: Produced using coffee beans, totally sans plastic, harmless to the ecosystem as well as have the trademark fragrance of espresso.
- Straws from sugarcane: Produced using sugarcane bagasse, has a light lovely fragrance, biodegradable, and doesn’t change the kind of beverage.
- Coconut straws: Produced from 100 percent aged coconut water, it has great flexibility and is insoluble in water.
To refer to detailed information on the above products, you can visit:
>> https://shopequo.com/collections
5.3. Utensils
EQUO utensils including blades, spoons, and forks, are items produced using different materials, for example, sugarcane bagasse, espresso beans, and wood. These are normal and totally compostable, making them ideal for those looking for an eco-accommodating choice to single-utilize plastic items.
In the excursion towards a supportable future, understanding and appropriately applying ideas, for example, compostable and biodegradable is crucial. This article has shed light on these two terms, making it easier for us to distinguish between them and use them effectively in everyday life.
