Biodegradable and Non-Biodegradable Substances

Biodegradable and Non-Biodegradable Substances

May 20, 2023, 16:45 IST

The current expansion of scientific research for novel biodegradable substances is primarily attributed to the public's growing environmental consciousness and the realisation of the need to control and reduce pollution. Biodegradable substances replace those hazardous to the environment, the public's health, and the survival of plants and animals. The metabolisation of substances by bacteria, yeast, and fungi—from which these organisms obtain nutrients and energy—is referred to as biodegradation, and it is a crucial natural resource for the creation of new environmentally friendly technologies that will have a direct impact on the chemical industry and other economic activities.

This article will discuss biodegradable and non-biodegradable substances, their differences and safe disposal methods.

What Are Biodegradable And Non-Biodegradable Substances?

Biodegradable: Biodegradable substances are materials or products that can be broken down and decomposed naturally by living organisms, such as bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms, into natural elements or compounds. Examples of biodegradable substances include

• Organic waste, such as food waste, leaves, and yard trimmings.
• Plant-based products, such as paper, cotton, and cornstarch.
• Biodegradable plastics are made from plant-based materials and break down into natural elements faster than traditional petroleum-based plastics.
• Natural fibres, such as wool and hemp, that can be composted after use.
• Certain chemicals, such as those used in cosmetics and cleaning products, are designed to break down quickly and safely in the environment.

Non Biodegradable: Non-biodegradable substances are materials or products that cannot be broken down and decomposed by living organisms and persist in the environment indefinitely. Examples of non-biodegradable substances include

• Petroleum-based plastics, such as polyethene and polypropylene, which can take hundreds of years to break down in the environment.
• Glass and metals, such as aluminium and steel, are not easily decomposed by living organisms.
• Synthetic fibres, such as nylon and polyester, that do not naturally break down in the environment.
• Certain chemicals, such as those used in batteries and electronic devices, are harmful to the environment and persist indefinitely.

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Difference Between Biodegradable And Non-Biodegradable Substances

How Biodegradable Substances Affect The Environment

Biodegradable substances are converted by microorganisms into simple compounds. However, if not disposed of properly, biodegradable substances can negatively impact the environment:

• Water pollution - Biodegradable substances can pollute water sources when they are not disposed of properly. Microorganisms in water bodies can break down biodegradable substances, but this process can consume oxygen and lead to eutrophication, harming aquatic life.
• Soil contamination - When biodegradable substances are not disposed of properly, they can contaminate the soil. The decomposition of the substances can lead to the release of toxic chemicals and gasses into the soil, affecting the growth of plants and other organisms that rely on the soil for survival.
• Air pollution - Biodegradable substances can release greenhouse gasses such as methane and carbon dioxide into the atmosphere during decomposition, contributing to air pollution and global warming.
• Overloading landfills - Biodegradable substances are often dumped in landfills, which can quickly become overwhelmed by the volume of waste. This can lead to soil and groundwater contamination, as well as the release of harmful gasses into the atmosphere.

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Why Nonbiodegradable Substances Harmful To The Environment

Nonbiodegradable substances are harmful to the environment because they persist in the environment for a long time and do not break down into natural substances that can be quickly reabsorbed. This means they continue accumulating in the environment, causing harmful effects.

Some ways that nonbiodegradable substances can harm the environment include:

• Littering: Nonbiodegradable substances, such as plastic bags and bottles, often end up as litter in the natural environment, where they can harm wildlife and their habitats.
• Marine Debris: Plastic debris in the ocean can harm marine wildlife, such as sea turtles, whales, and birds, that mistake it for food. The plastic debris can also cause damage to coral reefs, which are vital habitats for many marine species.
• Soil Contamination: Nonbiodegradable substances, such as chemical fertilisers, can contaminate the soil, leading to decreased soil fertility and harmful effects on plants and wildlife that depend on the soil for survival.
• Water Pollution: Nonbiodegradable substances, such as oil spills, can contaminate water sources, harming aquatic life and the water quality.

How Can We Reduce Biodegradable and Nonbiodegradable Substances?

Reducing biodegradable and non-biodegradable substances can be done in several ways, such as:

1. Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle : This is a common slogan emphasising the importance of reducing waste. By reducing the amount of waste we produce, we can lower the amount of biodegradable and non-biodegradable substances in the environment.
2. Composting : Biodegradable waste such as food scraps and yard waste can be composted at home, breaking the organic matter into nutrient-rich compost that can enrich the soil.
3. Proper disposal of hazardous waste : Certain non-biodegradable substances, such as batteries and electronic waste, contain toxic materials that can harm the environment and human health. Proper disposal of hazardous waste is essential to prevent soil and water contamination.
4. Use of reusable products : Using reusable bags, water bottles, and containers instead of disposable ones can reduce the amount of waste in landfills.
5. Support sustainable products and practices : Choosing products made from sustainable materials, supporting companies with environmentally-friendly practices, and advocating for waste reduction policies can help reduce the amount of biodegradable and non-biodegradable substances in the environment.

Biodegradable And Non-Biodegradable: FAQs

Q1. Why are biodegradable substances important?

Ans. Biodegradable substances are essential because natural processes can decompose them and do not accumulate in the environment. This helps maintain the balance of ecosystems and prevent the build-up of waste in landfills and the environment.

Q2. Why are non-biodegradable substances harmful to the environment?

Ans. Non-biodegradable substances harm the environment because they do not break down over time and can persist in the environment for hundreds of years. They can contribute to pollution, harm wildlife, and take up valuable space in landfills.

Q3. What can be done to reduce the amount of biodegradable and non-biodegradable substances in the environment?

Ans. To reduce the amount of biodegradable and non-biodegradable substances in the environment, individuals can reduce, reuse, and recycle waste, compost biodegradable waste, properly dispose of hazardous waste, use reusable products, and support sustainable products and practices.

Q4. How can composting help reduce biodegradable waste?

Ans. Composting helps reduce biodegradable waste by breaking down organic matter into nutrient-rich compost that can be used to enrich the soil. By composting biodegradable waste, individuals can reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills and help prevent the build-up of waste in the environment.

Q5. What is the difference between biodegradable and compostable?

Ans. Biodegradability refers to the ability of a substance to break down into simpler substances through natural processes and microorganisms. Compostable refers to the ability of a substance to break down into compost that can be used to enrich the soil. While all compostable substances are biodegradable, not all biodegradable substances are compostable.