Understanding Biodegradable and Compostable Plastics: The Green Consumer's Dilemma

We all want to be eco-friendly. We bring our reusable bags to the grocery store, opt for bamboo toothbrushes, and diligently separate our recyclables. But when it comes to understanding the difference between “biodegradable” and “compostable,” it’s easy to get tangled up in the green jargon. At first glance, these two terms might seem interchangeable. After all, they both imply that a product breaks down and returns to nature, right? Well, not exactly. There’s a world of difference between biodegradable and compostable materials, and understanding these distinctions is key to making smarter choices for the planet.

Let’s start with the basics. Biodegradable products are made from organic materials that can be broken down by microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi. However, the term “biodegradable” is often used loosely. It doesn’t specify how long this process will take or what environmental conditions are required. Some so-called biodegradable plastics might take years to break down, and they often leave behind microplastics that can harm marine life and enter our food chain.

On the other hand, compostable materials are specifically designed to break down in composting conditions, usually within a matter of months. Compostable items break down completely, leaving no toxic residue and turning into nutrient-rich compost that can benefit the soil. However, even compostable items need the right conditions – a good balance of oxygen, moisture, and the right temperatures – to break down efficiently. Tossing a compostable fork into the trash won’t cut it; it needs to be in a composting facility to do its thing.

So, why does this all matter? Because the labels we see on products can be incredibly misleading. A product labeled “biodegradable” might sound green, but if it’s not disposed of correctly, it could be just as harmful as regular plastic. And don’t even get us started on the potential for greenwashing – where companies make their products seem more eco-friendly than they actually are. That’s where understanding the fine print comes in hand, you can read more here on our article on understanding the fine print. Read More >

For example, some biodegradable materials are not compostable in an industrial composting facility and this term does not specify the required conditions for it to breakdown which may mean that some biodegradable materials could take years to decompose.  There’s also a tendency for mis-sorting to occur by the consumer, so biodegradable materials could end up in general rubbish landfill which means that they will not decompose at all.  Compostable products also need to be properly distinguished between home compostable (the gold standard) or if they require industrial composting facilities where typically they require high heat temperatures to aid the decomposition. 

Enter PlantSwitch, a company that’s taking a unique approach to the biodegradable versus compostable dilemma. PlantSwitch products are crafted from plant-based materials that is 100% home compostable which means that it does not require any industrial composting facilities.  They can simply be disposed of in the backyard garden or if they end up in landfill it will also decompose completely.  It also has a huge CO2 savings benefit as well as industrial compositing requires facilities to maintain high heat temperatures (140-160F) which contributes significantly to CO2 emissions.

PlantSwitch is committed to reducing the environmental impact from start to finish. Unlike some biodegradable products that break down into microplastics, PlantSwitch items degrade into completely into non-toxic, natural components that enrich the soil rather than harm it. This makes them a safer, more sustainable choice for those looking to reduce their carbon footprint without compromising on convenience.

As consumers, we have the power to drive change by making informed choices. By understanding the differences between biodegradable and compostable, and choosing products that truly align with our environmental values, we can push back against greenwashing and support companies that are genuinely making a difference.

So next time you’re faced with a choice between a product labeled “biodegradable” and one labeled “compostable,” remember that the devil is in the details. And if you want a solution that goes the extra mile, look for companies like PlantSwitch that are committed to innovation, transparency, and sustainability. After all, it’s not just about what our products are made from – it’s about where they end up and how they get there. Let's choose wisely, for ourselves and for the planet.