Biodegradable vs. Compostable Plastics
In the pursuit of sustainable materials, terms like “biodegradable” and “compostable” are often used, sometimes interchangeably. However, these terms indicate distinct processes and standards.
Defining Biodegradable and Compostable Plastics
Biodegradable Plastics: These are plastics that can be broken down by microorganisms into water, carbon dioxide (or methane), and biomass over time. The rate and completeness of degradation can vary significantly based on environmental conditions such as temperature, presence of microorganisms, and moisture levels. Notably, there is no universal standard dictating the timeframe or conditions for biodegradation, leading to variability in performance.
Compostable Plastics: Compostable plastics are a subset of biodegradable plastics designed to break down under specific composting conditions, resulting in carbon dioxide, water, inorganic compounds, and biomass that enrich the soil. These plastics must meet stringent standards, such as ASTM D6400 in the U.S. or EN 13432 in Europe, which require the material to disintegrate within a set timeframe (typically 90% degradation within 180 days in industrial composting facilities) and leave no toxic residue. Wikipedia
Key Differences Between Biodegradable and Compostable Plastics
Degradation Conditions: Compostable plastics require specific conditions found in industrial composting facilities, including controlled temperature, humidity, and microbial activity. In contrast, biodegradable plastics may degrade in a variety of environments, but the rate and completeness of degradation are less predictable.
Standards and Certification: Compostable plastics are subject to rigorous testing and certification processes to ensure they meet established standards. Biodegradable plastics lack universally accepted standards, leading to potential inconsistencies in performance claims.
Environmental Impact: Compostable plastics are designed to leave no toxic residue and contribute positively to soil health. Biodegradable plastics may not fully decompose in certain environments, potentially leading to microplastic pollution if not properly managed.
EcoPure® Enhances Biodegradability of Traditional Plastics
EcoPure® is an organic additive developed by Bio-Tec Environmental, LLC, designed to enhance the biodegradability of traditional petroleum-based plastics. When incorporated into plastic products, EcoPure® facilitates microbial activity in landfill environments, accelerating the breakdown process without altering the product’s performance during its intended use. Bio-Tec Environmental+1Bio-Tec Environmental+1
Key Features of EcoPure®:
- Activation in Landfills: EcoPure®-treated plastics remain stable during use and storage, only initiating degradation when exposed to the microbial-rich conditions of landfills.
- Compatibility: The additive can be integrated into various plastic resins, including polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polystyrene (PS), and polyethylene terephthalate (PET), without requiring changes to existing manufacturing processes.
- Testing and Compliance: EcoPure®-enhanced plastics have undergone testing in accordance with ASTM D5511 standards, demonstrating accelerated biodegradation under anaerobic conditions typical of landfills.
Understanding the distinctions between biodegradable and compostable plastics is crucial for making informed decisions in material selection and waste management. While compostable plastics offer benefits under specific conditions, biodegradable plastics like those enhanced with EcoPure® provide an alternative by facilitating degradation in landfill environments, where a significant portion of plastic waste ends up. As the push for sustainable materials continues, additives like EcoPure® play a role in bridging the gap between traditional plastics and environmentally friendly alternatives.
