Biodegradable and compostable: do we really know what they mean? Two words often used as synonyms in common parlance, actually very different from each other.
The confusion present about these terms generates many errors in household waste disposal. Confusing biodegradable products with compostable products invalidates the recycling process, with inevitable consequences for the environment. Becoming informed about the topic and understanding the difference between these two types of materials is the first step to conscious recycling collection done the right way.
What does biodegradable mean?
Biodegradable products are made from materials that decompose over time into methane, CO2, water and mineral salts. There are various types, each with different disposal times.
Some products may take years or decades to complete the decomposition process. For this, the biodegradable label alone is not enough. In order to have a biodegradable waste that is also environmentally friendly, regulations require that 90 percent of the material must break down into simpler components in no more than 6 months. Not only that, UNI EN 13432 establishes additional parameters based on the context in which The biodegradation process takes place. Depending on the temperature and humidity of the environment, the duration and mode of splitting may vary.
How to dispose of a biodegradable product?
A biodegradable waste is not harmless to the environment. Although it is bound to decompose over time, it is important to follow the instructions given by the manufacturer to put it in the correct bin. In fact, some products require a specific environment to complete the splitting process, such as disposal through high temperatures or within an industrial composting system.
What does compostable mean?
A compostable material is one that can be placed in the organics bin because it is capable of transforming through the composting process into compost.
For a product to be compostable, the European standard UNI EN 13432 stipulates that it must decompose to 90 percent, in a period of up to 3 months, if put in contact with other organic residues. It must also have passed ecotoxicity tests and thus have no adverse effect on the environment.
In Europe, one of the third-party bodies that certifies compostability is the TÜV AUSTRIA group. An independent inspection and certification body that follows the directives dictated by the European Union.
Where do I throw a compostable waste?
If we find the words compostable on the label, the product can and should be placed in the wet waste. Even in the case of packaging, bottles or packaging that may look like plastic but carry the certification
Ok compost
by
TÜV AUSTRIA
.
Substantial difference between compostable and biodegradable?
The difference between a biodegradable and a compostable material lies in how 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 various disposal conditions.
A compostable material is always biodegradable, but not the other way around. Accordingly, the biodegradable product should be placed in the appropriate bin (plastic, paper…) according to the directions the label gives us.
