Biodegradable vs. Compostable: A Comprehensive Guide to Reducing Waste and Environmental Impact

As people become more eco-conscious, terms like "biodegradable" and "compostable" are becoming part of daily conversations. Yet, they're often used interchangeably despite their distinct meanings and implications for waste management and environmental health. This blog explores what it means for a material to be biodegradable versus compostable, highlighting the differences, benefits, and impacts of each. Understanding these concepts can guide us in making better choices for the planet, particularly as we move towards sustainable options like so gud™'s compostable packaging.

What is Biodegradable?

"Biodegradable" refers to materials that can break down into natural elements through the action of microorganisms like bacteria and fungi. This process, known as biodegradation, is a natural cycle in various environments, including soil and water. It is how organic matter, like plants and animals, recycles nutrients back into the ecosystem, sustaining life on Earth.

However, the time required for a material to biodegrade can vary greatly. For instance:

• A banana peel can decompose under the right conditions within a few weeks.
• Plastic bags can take hundreds of years to break down, even though certain types are labelled "biodegradable."

Biodegradable plastics, made to decompose under certain conditions, are increasingly popular alternatives to traditional plastics. Yet, some of these "biodegradable" products may persist in the environment for decades or longer if they don't encounter the specific conditions they require to break down fully.

The Environmental Drawbacks of Biodegradable Materials

One common misconception is that biodegradable materials are always environmentally friendly. In truth, many biodegradable materials release methane gas as they break down in landfills due to a lack of oxygen. Methane is a potent greenhouse gas, trapping heat in the atmosphere 28 times more effectively than carbon dioxide (CO₂) over a 100-year year, significantly contributing to global warming. This means that while biodegradable items may reduce plastic waste, they can still negatively impact the environment when disposed of in landfills.

What is Compostable?

Compostable materials, on the other hand, are designed to break down under specific conditions and transform into nutrient-rich compost. Composting is a controlled process of decomposition that takes place in an environment rich in oxygen, moisture, and warmth. When fully composted, these materials become humus—a rich, stable form of organic matter that enhances soil health, retains moisture, and nourishes plant life.

For a product to be deemed compostable, it must meet strict criteria, including:

1. Decomposition within a specific time frame—typically 90 days in commercial composting facilities.
2. Non-toxicity—no harmful chemicals or residual toxins should remain after decomposition.
3. Minimal CO₂ emissions—compostable materials emit CO₂, but this is part of a natural cycle and considered less harmful than methane.

Unlike biodegradable items, compostable materials usually don't require industrial conditions to break down. However, some do need specific environments, especially compostable plastics. Compostable plastics made from renewable resources like and cornstarch, PLA (polylactic acid), or sugarcane can break down in commercial composting facilities but may not compost effectively in backyard settings.

Key Differences Between Biodegradable and Compostable

Understanding the differences between biodegradable and compostable materials is crucial for making informed environmental choices.

• Breakdown Process Natural decomposition by microorganisms Controlled composting environment
• End Product Natural elements, but not always beneficial Nutrient-rich compost that benefits soil and plants
• Time to Decompose Can vary from weeks to centuries Designed to break down within 90 days in proper setup
• Environmental Impact May release methane if anaerobic decomposition Emits CO₂, a less potent greenhouse gas, and enriches soil

For example, if you dispose of biodegradable plastic in a landfill, it may take decades to decompose, releasing methane gas. Compostable items, on the other hand, are designed to break down into beneficial compost, provided they're disposed of in a composting environment, minimizing environmental harm.

Certification for Compostability: OK Compost and ASTM Standards

To verify that a material is compostable, look for certifications like the OK Compost certification or ASTM standards:

Currently, the materials used to make so gud™ bottles are certified and we are working on obtaining the certifications for so gud™ bottles.

1. OK Compost: The OK Compost certification, granted by the TÜV Austria Group, signifies that a product is compostable in an industrial composting environment. There are two levels: OK Compost Industrial (certified to break down under industrial composting conditions) and OK Compost Home (which can break down in home compost setups).
2. ASTM Standards: The ASTM D6400 and ASTM D6868 are standards that set guidelines for compostable plastics, ensuring they decompose in industrial composting facilities within a specific timeframe with no harmful residues. Materials meeting these standards are more reliable for eco-conscious consumers.

PLA (polylactic acid) is an excellent example of a material that aligns with these standards. PLA is a common material in compostable packaging made from renewable resources because it breaks down efficiently in industrial composting settings. However, while PLA is compostable in certain conditions, it won't degrade efficiently in a landfill or marine environment.

The Future of Sustainable Packaging: Why Choose Compostable Over Biodegradable?

While both biodegradable and compostable materials can contribute to reducing waste, compostable products have a distinct advantage regarding environmental impact. Here's why choosing compostable materials, like those used in so gud™ products, is often more beneficial:

1. Reduction of Harmful Gases: Compostable materials break down without releasing methane, reducing their potential contribution to greenhouse gas emissions.
2. Soil Enrichment: By turning into nutrient-rich compost, these materials help regenerate soil, benefiting ecosystems and promoting sustainable agricultural practices.
3. Clearer Disposal Guidance: Compostable materials have more defined disposal pathways. In many cities, industrial composting facilities are increasingly available, making it easier for consumers to ensure products are properly composted.

How so gud™ Embraces Compostable Packaging for a Healthier Planet

At so gud™, we're committed to sustainable solutions that align with our values and reduce our environmental footprint. Focusing on compostable packaging ensures that our products support a circular economy. The compostable packaging for our ready-to-drink teas, mineral waters, and flavored waters aligns with recognized standards, ensuring safe decomposition that benefits the environment rather than harming it.

so gud™ PLA bottles and paper-based compostable options are specially designed to be disposed of in composting facilities, where they break down efficiently. We've chosen compostable over biodegradable because we believe in creating a future where waste doesn't end up in landfills or oceans but instead contributes to soil health and the growth of new plants.

Compostable is the Future

As more individuals and businesses recognize the benefits of compostable materials, we're moving toward a future with less waste and cleaner land, water, and air. While biodegradable products can be beneficial, compostable materials offer a clearer, more environmentally sound solution for waste management, as long as the appropriate disposal infrastructure is in place.

Choosing compostable options ensures that we contribute to the soil cycle, reduce landfill waste, and help create a more sustainable future for everyone. At so gud™, we're proud to be part of this shift towards sustainable, compostable packaging, and we encourage consumers and companies alike to consider the positive impact that compostable products can make on the world.