Biodegradable vs. Degradable Products

Do you know the difference between truly biodegradable products and commonly found products that are just degradable?

Many plastic products on the market claim to be biodegradable but are actually oxo-degradable plastic which is manufactured by combining polyolefines with metal-containing additives which break down into small fragments. Because conventional plastic is not biodegradable, the tiny fragments left behind from degradable plastics pose environmental and health concerns.

Industry and consumers looking for a true sustainable substitute to conventional plastic materials should instead choose a certified 100% compostable plastic. Biodegradable material will, under ambient conditions, be broken down by microbes in the environment and be consumed as a food source. This is the process that converts carbon into energy and maintains life.

How to spot the bad guys:

• Oxo-Degradable
• Degradable in a landfill
• Not acceptable as biodegradable in the state of California
• Contains polyethylene or other conventional plastics

How to spot the good guys:

• 100% Biodegradable & Compostable
• Certified by the BPI to meet ASTM D6400 standards
• Do NOT contain any polyethylene or other conventional plastics
• Meets requirements of California SB1749

Look for the Biodegradable Products Institute (BPI) certification logo on products to ensure they are truly biodegradable and compostable.

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