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What exactly is biodegradable and compostable plastic, and what is the difference between them?

Both biodegradable and compostable plastics can break down or “biodegrade” – which happens when microorganisms digest the building blocks that make up the material – but there are important differences between these two terms.

Biodegradable plastic is defined by its ability to break down completely into substances found in nature, and in a reasonable time frame. This sounds good in theory, but in practice, doesn’t often work.

While compostable plastic also biodegrades, it is specifically designed and tested to be processed in either home or industrial composting facilities. Compositing facilities enable specific conditions like temperature and moisture to turn the plastic into usable soil conditioner.

Biodegradable and compostable plastic is becoming a more frequent option on store shelves as the demand for “green” products grows. Given the fact that a dump truck’s worth of plastic waste enters our oceans each minute, it’s not surprising that people are looking to use their purchasing power in ways that will presumably leave a smaller footprint.

The growing trend in plastic use is fueled by the assumption that if a product or its packaging is labeled as “biodegradable” or “compostable,” then it must be the more sustainable option. Unfortunately, that is not necessarily the case.

As the production of biodegradable plastics jumps from 1.5M metric tons to almost 5.3M in the coming years, understanding exactly how these materials are helping—or hurting—the environment is critical.

How do they play a role in helping the environment and reducing plastic waste pollution?

Biodegradable and compostable plastic alone will not solve the plastic pollution crisis. Instead, there are many levers that need to be pulled to reduce and reuse plastic and shift to a circular economy. In fact, we can’t even rely on the assumption that these materials will not cause environmental damage if they end up as litter.

All plastic—including biodegradable and compostable types—must be collected and paired with the right recovery systems, so that the material stays in the loop and out of nature.

However, for specific applications, compostable and biodegradable plastic can play a helpful role in reducing waste. Compostable take-out containers are a great example, since they can compost the remaining food residue alongside the container itself.

Additionally, biodegradable and compostable plastic is often made from biobased sources—like seaweed, sugar beets, or other plants—instead of fossil fuels. In this case, and if sourced responsibly, these materials can offer environmental benefits.