Sustainability Tip: Compostable versus biodegradable — what does it all mean?

Sustainability can imply many various issues, relying on what you’re specializing in. Whenever you dive in deep, the phrases can get complicated, and plenty of that appear interchangeable are literally very completely different.

One subject that comes up incessantly on the planet of sustainable waste administration is the distinction between compostable and biodegradable. It’s vital to know the distinction and know what you’re searching for. We’ve damaged these down that can assist you higher perceive the distinction and why it issues.

Ideas

1. Study the phrases. Biodegradable doesn’t equal compostable. Biodegradable merely refers to something that degrades time beyond regulation in a pure atmosphere, in accordance with the Federal Commerce Fee. Heaps and many issues are biodegradable, however it might take lots of of years. It’s actually not a helpful time period for serving to us to navigate learn how to correctly toss stuff away. Compostable refers to a fabric’s capacity to interrupt down within the particular organic composting atmosphere, and completely applies to natural and plant materials. Compostable supplies are additionally biodegradable, however biodegradable supplies are usually not at all times compostable. Take into account, nevertheless, that each of those phrases are usually not legally binding with out correct certification (see greenwashing under). In truth, in some states it’s unlawful to make use of the time period “biodegradable” on product packaging as a result of it’s unspecific and complicated to shoppers, and most business compost amenities is not going to settle for sure compostable merchandise that aren’t licensed.
2. Test the foundations. In case you use a business composting program at work, house or college, examine together with your hauler about what may be accepted in your bin. Most solely settle for BPI licensed compostable merchandise. BPI is a third-party certification physique, and the seal tells us that it’s going to correctly and utterly break down within the compost atmosphere. That is particularly vital for serviceware like compostable cutlery, plates, bowls and cups, which may be made of various plant-based supplies, however with out the certification may be combined with non-compostable supplies. Your hauler could have extra pointers, so it’s at all times greatest to double examine.
3. Compost! Take into account signing up for a composting service when you haven’t already. There are business composting applications out there in Eagle County for properties and companies. Contact EverGreen Zero Waste and Vail Honeywagon for extra info. And you may as well compost your self at house; be taught extra at walkingmountains.org/composting.
4. Don’t be greenwashed. Sustainability is a sizzling subject and plenty of companies need to be part of the motion. Sadly some don’t at all times stroll the stroll, and can market “inexperienced” merchandise that aren’t really environmentally-friendly. Look out for greenwashing, which is the “technique of conveying a misunderstanding or offering deceptive details about how an organization’s merchandise are extra environmentally sound,” in accordance with Investopedia. Suppose slapping the phrase “biodegradable” or “eco” in inexperienced letters onto the label, with out proving or sharing something particular concerning the sustainability of the product. In fact, not all sustainability claims are faux, so to keep away from being greenwashed, search for as a lot particular info as doable. A field of disposable cutlery that claims “compostable” with no different rationalization ought to increase a pink flag. However compostable cutlery that’s BPI licensed compostable and clearly signifies that it’s made from a 100% plant-based materials, and details about the carbon footprint of the product may be simply discovered, is probably going reliable. Certifications like BPI are a terrific device as a result of there may be rigorous testing and approval required to get the label, which takes numerous the guess work off of you.

Nina Waysdorf is the sustainability applications coordinator at Strolling Mountains Science Heart and an avid composter.