Do you know the differences between biodegradable and compostable?

The significance of environmental protection is undeniable—it impacts the entire world and our planet as a whole. However, not all so-called eco-friendly measures are truly beneficial to the environment. In fact, some have little to no relevance to sustainability.

Have you ever noticed that many so-called "eco-friendly" products often carry labels such as "compostable" or "biodegradable"? These labels create the impression that a product is environmentally friendly simply because they are present. In some cases, these products are even priced several times higher than those without such labels. But what do these terms actually mean? Do they truly result in zero harm to the planet? This article will provide a clear explanation.

Understanding "Compostable" and "Biodegradable"

Compostable

This term refers to materials that can break down completely under specific conditions (such as temperature, humidity, and microbial activity) within a certain period (typically a few months). The final decomposition products include carbon dioxide, water, and organic nutrients, forming humus (compost) that can be used as soil fertilizer.

Key Requirement: The decomposition process must be non-toxic and beneficial to the soil.

Biodegradable

This term refers to materials that break down over time in natural environments (such as soil or oceans) through microbial activity, breaking into smaller molecular components like water, carbon dioxide, and methane. However, biodegradability does not specify the timeframe, conditions, or the final byproducts, meaning some biodegradable materials may leave behind microplastics or other harmful substances.

Key Differences Between "Compostable" and "Biodegradable"

Common Compostable Products in Daily Life

1. Kitchen waste (fruit peels, vegetable scraps, coffee grounds, tea leaves, etc.)
2. Paper products (uncoated tissues, kraft paper bags, egg cartons, etc.)
3. Compostable tableware (forks, knives, spoons made from PLA or bamboo fiber)
4. Food containers and straws made from cornstarch or sugarcane pulp
5. Natural fiber textiles (100% cotton, wool, linen)
6. Compostable trash bags (certified for home or industrial composting)

Common Biodegradable Products in Daily Life

1. Biodegradable plastic bags (offered in some supermarkets)
2. Degradable plastic straws and cups (made from PBAT, PLA, etc.)
3. Certain wet wipes and eco-friendly diapers (verify ingredients, as some may still contain non-degradable components)
4. Wooden or bamboo disposable cutlery
5. Paper food packaging (without plastic coatings or using biodegradable coatings)

How to Choose Truly Eco-Friendly Products in Daily Life?

1.Look for certifications, not just marketing labels:

For compostable products: Look for BPI (USA), OK Compost (EU), GB/T 28206 (China), etc.

For biodegradable products: Prioritize TÜV OK Biodegradable (which distinguishes between water, soil, and marine biodegradability).

2.Consider waste management facilities in your area:

If your city lacks industrial composting facilities, compostable products may end up in landfills or incineration, losing their environmental benefits.

If biodegradable products cannot be properly processed, they might actually cause more harm than traditional plastics.

3.Beware of "fake eco-friendly" traps:

Avoid purchasing products labeled "biodegradable" without specific certifications (especially "photo-degradable" plastics, which only break into microplastics).

Some "compostable" products are only suitable for industrial composting, meaning they won't break down in home composting systems—always read the fine print.

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