What is the difference between ‘compostable’ and ‘biodegradable’?

Though many companies use the terms ‘compostable’ and ‘biodegradable’ interchangeably, there are notable differences between the two.

What defines a product as either biodegradable or compostable generally comes down to:

• the material(s) used
• the processes required for it to break down
• what it breaks down into

Defining sustainable terms

It is important to understand the terminology used when referring to sustainable manufacturing and products to avoid being duped by corporate greenwashing.

Greenwashing occurs when a product or service is made to seem more eco-friendly than it is. For example, degradable plastics were marketed as sustainable despite breaking down into microplastics, which are more likely to create environmental pollution.

What does ‘biodegradable’ mean?

An item or material is biodegradable if it can be broken down by living organisms such as bacteria, microbes, or fungi.

Biodegradable materials may be natural or synthetic in origin. However, they do not necessarily decompose into harmless by-products.

What does ‘compostable’ mean?

If something is compostable, it must be certified to consist only of natural or organic components, and proven to be able to break down without releasing toxic materials. The only products of the process should be:

• non-toxic biomass
• water
• carbon dioxide

In the UK, certification standards require a compostable material to break down under particular moisture and temperature conditions, and within a set amount of time.

As well as no toxic by-products, the resulting biomass should be safe for use as natural fertiliser.

Are biodegradable products more eco-friendly?

There are currently no government or industry regulations in the UK to certify biodegradable products. As most materials ‘biodegrade’ over time, the term is difficult to define and standardise.

In some cases, biodegradable materials can be bad for the environment. For example, there are some bacteria which can metabolise and break down certain plastics. Though removing this pollution is good, these processes can generate toxic by-products.

Some organic biodegradable products may be eco-friendly, but cannot be certified as compostable because they take too long to break down, or require certain conditions or microorganisms outside the scope of certification requirements.

The importance of understanding eco-friendly terms

Differences in sustainable terminology and certification matter most when trying to dispose of eco-friendly products correctly. Efficient waste processes help reduce landfill and lessen the burden on recycling facilities.

There are distinctions which should be noted. Home-compostable products, for instance, should not be disposed of with kerbside food waste collections; they break down too slowly for local authority composting facilities.

Can biodegradable products be recycled?

Many biodegradable products are suitable for recycling, such as cardboard and paper. As always, you should consult product labelling, as well as local waste management guidelines, to ensure correct disposal.

Some biodegradable products are not suitable for recycling. Bioplastics, derived from organic sources rather than petrol- or oil-based chemicals, require different processes to be recycled. They also need a different amount of time to process, compared with oil-based plastics.

Do compostable products count as zero waste?

When disposed of correctly, most compostable products produce no harmful or lasting waste. The only tangible ‘waste’ product is compost.

Compost counts as ‘positive’ waste. It can be used to replace chemical fertiliser, promote healthy plant growth and enrich soil.

There is some discussion around the resources required for industrial composting processes and how these may negatively impact the environment. However, when compared to landfill, recycling, or environmental pollution, composting is much more sustainable.

Understanding eco-friendly living

At FOOGO green, we believe in supplying products that minimise the harm inflicted on the environment, while providing positive benefits in terms of quality, utility, and eco-friendliness.

Our compostable and biodegradable tableware offers the convenience, durability and reliability of contemporary disposable catering goods, without any of the environmental waste. Simply dispose of our plant-based plates, bowls, and cutlery into your home compost.

Get started by browsing our range today.