The Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) says waste terms such as ‘biodegradable’ and ‘compostable’ seen in product ads, are confusing and potentially misleading. The ASA – which has the job of making sure that advertisements do not mislead the public – says that people often buy products which they believe are green choices and environmentally friendly, when in reality that is not necessarily the case.
As sustainability becomes more important, we often encounter terms like biodegradable, recyclable, and compostable on product labels. While these terms all relate to reducing environmental impact, they refer to different processes. Let’s break down what each means and how they help the planet.
Biodegradable materials are substances that can naturally break down into non-toxic components through the action of microorganisms like bacteria and fungi. This process returns the material to the earth without harming the environment.
However, “biodegradable” doesn’t necessarily mean it’s eco-friendly or quick. Depending on the material, it might take weeks, months, or even years to break down. For example, some plastics labelled as biodegradable might still require specific conditions like high heat or special environments to decompose efficiently. Biodegradable products break down naturally but may take a long time and specific conditions to fully decompose.
Recyclable materials can be processed and reused to make new products. This reduces the need for virgin resources and cuts down on waste sent to landfills. Common recyclable materials include paper, cardboard, certain plastics, glass, and metals. Recycling helps conserve natural resources and energy, but not all items can be recycled everywhere. It depends on local recycling programs, and contamination (like food residue) can interfere with the process. Recyclable materials can be processed into new products, but proper sorting and local capabilities matter.
Compostable products go a step further than biodegradable items. They not only break down naturally but also turn into nutrient-rich compost when processed correctly. This organic matter helps improve soil health and can be used to grow new plants.
Compostable items are often made from natural materials, like food waste or plant-based plastics, and decompose under the right conditions, such as heat, moisture, and air. Unlike some biodegradable products, compostable materials typically break down faster and more completely,
especially in industrial composting facilities. Compostable materials break down into compost, providing valuable nutrients for the soil, but often need specific conditions to do so.
- Biodegradable items break down naturally but might take time or need certain environments.
- Recyclable materials can be processed into new items but require proper disposal.
- Compostable products decompose into nutrient-rich compost and are great for soil, but often need controlled composting conditions.
Understanding these terms helps us make informed decisions when choosing eco-friendly products and disposing of waste properly. Each option plays a role in reducing our environmental footprint, but knowing the nuances helps ensure we’re supporting sustainability in the best way possible.
