Breaking Down Biodegradable
If you’ve ever picked up a product labeled “biodegradable” and thought, Wow, I’m basically saving the planet just by buying this, you’re not alone. But the unfortunate reality is that not all biodegradable claims are as green as they seem.
According to a recent study done in the UN, a staggering 300 million tons of plastic are churned out every year, and only 9% of it gets recycled. The rest? Landfills, oceans, and your Instagram feed of heaps of plastic being washed up on pristine beaches. While we all do our best to go plastic-free, the harsh truth is that corporations are still cranking it out. But don’t put your head down just yet — there is hope! There are many companies that continue to innovate and work with biodegradable and compostable materials to help with the intermediary transition to zero-waste. Imagine swapping even a fraction of that plastic for alternatives that actually go away.
Let’s peel back the compostable layers of this buzzword and get to the dirt (pun intended) on what biodegradable really means, why it matters, and how to avoid falling for greenwashing. Ready? Let’s break it down!
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Why Biodegradability Matters
You might be wondering: Why does it even matter if something is biodegradable?
I get it—life’s already complicated enough with separating your recyclables, remembering your reusable bags, and trying not to accidentally kill your houseplants. But here’s the truth: biodegradable products can make a real difference in reducing the ever-growing mountain of waste we send to landfills.
Think of it this way: a regular plastic bottle might outlive your great-great-grandkids, while a biodegradable alternative could break down within a few months or years, depending on the conditions. That’s the kind of legacy we want to leave behind—not a plastic time capsule.
A few other benefits of biodegradable materials:
Reduces Landfill Waste: Biodegradable products break down naturally, reducing the amount of long-lasting waste sitting in landfills.
Conserves Resources: Many biodegradable items are made from renewable materials, lessening our dependence on fossil fuels.
Protects Wildlife: Properly biodegradable products minimize pollution, reducing harm to animals and ecosystems.
Biodegradable vs. Compostable:
Now, let’s tackle the big question: What does “biodegradable” mean? Simply put, it refers to a product’s ability to break down into natural elements like water, carbon dioxide, and biomass, often with the help of microorganisms. Sounds great, right? But the catch is: there’s no universal timeline for how long this process should take.
On the other hand, “compostable” products are designed to break down under specific conditions, like the high heat and controlled environment of an industrial composting facility. In other words, not all compostable items will biodegrade in your backyard compost pile, and not all biodegradable items can be composted. Talk about confusing! We are here to help.
How to Spot Truly Sustainable Products
Here are some tips for identifying genuinely eco-friendly items:
1. Look for Certifications: Third-party certifications like BPI (Biodegradable Products Institute) or OK Compost guarantee that a product meets specific compostability standards.
2. Check the Fine Print: Words like “biodegradable” and “eco-friendly” can be meaningless without context. Look for details about where and how the product decomposes.
3. Beware of Greenwashing: If a company’s claims sound too good to be true, they probably are. Watch out for vague terms like “earth-friendly” that lack concrete proof.
4. Know Your Materials: Natural materials like bamboo, teakwood, cork, and jute are more likely to break down sustainably than synthetic ones labeled as biodegradable.
5. Do a Backyard Test: If you’re feeling adventurous, try composting a small piece of the item at home to see how it performs in the elements. Chances are, if it sticks around after a few months, you might want to question its validity.
Top Biodegradable Products Worth Trying
Now that you know how to spot the real deal, here are some products that pass the test and make a big impact on reducing waste:
1. Certified Compostable Trash Bags
Perfect for lining your compost bin or collecting food scraps, these bags break down completely in both home and industrial compost setups.
Eco-Safe Compostable Bags
2. Bamboo Utensils
Say goodbye to single-use plastic cutlery and hello to lightweight, reusable bamboo forks, knives, and spoons. Bonus: they look super chic at picnics.
Reusable Bamboo Utensil Set
3. Compostable Food Storage Wraps
Ditch the plastic wrap and opt for beeswax or plant-based alternatives that keep your food fresh and your conscience clear.
Beeswax Food Wraps
4. Biodegradable Plant Pots
These pots decompose naturally, making them ideal for starting seeds or repotting plants without creating extra waste.
Biodegradable Seed Starter Pots
Final Thoughts: Breaking Down the Buzzword
Navigating the world of biodegradable products can feel like wading through a sea of confusing labels and lofty claims. But with a little knowledge (and a lot of skepticism), you can make informed choices that truly benefit the planet.
Remember, every small step counts. Whether it’s switching to compostable bags, using bamboo utensils, or simply thinking twice before buying something “biodegradable” or “compostable,” you’re contributing to a more sustainable future. And if you’re ever in doubt, just ask yourself: Will this product actually break down, or am I being sold a load of greenwashed garbage?
Sustainable Swap of the Week
For the adventure seekers, road warriors, and hydration fanatics: it’s time to ditch those plastic water bottles and upgrade to a lightweight, durable alternative that’s better for you and the planet.
As someone who travels a lot for work, I’m always on the lookout for products that match my eco-conscious lifestyle. Last week, I finally found a brand that aligns perfectly with What’s Your Impact’s mission: Bambaw.
Why do we love Bambaw? Their mission is simple yet powerful—helping people create less waste, wherever life takes them, by offering zero-waste swaps for every corner of your day-to-day routine. Personally, I started with their water bottle (I couldn’t resist the chic wooden topper and their climate-friendly pledge), but I’m already eyeing some of their other products to replace my single-use items.
The best part? The water bottle I bought is the perfect size for my work backpack—compact, sleek, and ready for any adventure. Check it out here: Bambaw Water Bottle
What’s one action you’ll take this week? Leave a comment below!