Biodegradable and compostable: do we really know their meaning? These two words are often used as synonyms in common language, but in reality, they are very different from each other.
The confusion surrounding these terms generates many errors in household waste disposal. Confusing biodegradable products with compostable products undermines the recycling process, with harmful consequences for the environment. Informing yourself on the topic and understanding the difference between these two types of material is the first step towards mindful waste separation done in the right way.
What does biodegradable mean?
Biodegradable products are made with materials that decompose over time, transforming into methane, CO2, water and minerals. There are various typologies, each with different decomposition times.
Some products can take years or decades to complete the decomposition process. For this reason, the mere “biodegradable” branding is not enough. To have biodegradable waste that is also ecological, the legislation requires that 90% of the material must break down into simpler components in a maximum of 6 months. Not only that, the UNI EN 13432 regulation establishes further parameters based on the context in which the biodegradation process takes place. Depending on the environment’s temperature and humidity, the duration and method of breaking down may vary.
How to dispose of a biodegradable product?
Biodegradable waste is not harmless to the environment. Even though it will decompose over time, it is important to follow the instructions given by the manufacturer to dispose of it in the correct bin. Some products require a specific environment to complete the breakdown process, such as disposal through high temperatures or within an industrial composting system.
What does compostable mean?
A compostable material is a material that can be placed in the organic waste bin because it is able to transform itself, through the composting process, into compost.
For a product to be compostable, the European regulation UNI EN 13432 establishes that it must be 90% decomposed in a maximum period of 3 months, if brought into contact with other organic residues. It must also have passed ecotoxicity tests and therefore not have any negative effect on the environment.
In Europe, one of the third-party bodies that certifies compostability is the TÜV AUSTRIA group. It is an independent inspection and certification body that follows the directives of the European Union.
Where do I throw compostable waste?
If we find the word “compostable” on the label, the product can and must be disposed of in the organic waste. This is the case even for packaging or bottles that may appear to be made of plastic but that bear the Ok compost certification from TÜV AUSTRIA.
What is the substantial difference between compostable and biodegradable?
The difference between a biodegradable material and a compostable one lies in the way in which they are disposed of. A compostable product disintegrates in less than 3 months in contact with other organic residues, while a biodegradable material degrades within 6
months, under different disposal conditions. A compostable material is always biodegradable, but not the other way around. Consequently, the biodegradable product must be placed in the appropriate bin (plastic, paper…) according to the instructions given on the label.