A biodegradable is one that decomposes naturally in the environment, through the action of microorganisms. This means that they do not pollute planet earth and do not pose a risk to human or animal health.

Something so essential today, that there is only waste everywhere, damaging the ecosystem. However, there is a solution, and precisely in this post, we are going to explain what is biodegradable, also known as biodegradability and biodegradation, what its main advantages are and why it is important to use them as biodegradable plastics.

What is biodegradable?

Biodegradable is the term used to describe all those elements that can be decomposed by natural microorganisms, in rapid periods. The biodegradability of a component depends on the ability of said resource to be metabolized by fungi and bacteria, that is, to be transformed into substances that the body can use. Biodegradable plastics were one of the first items made using this special technique.

What are the grades of a biodegradable?

The degrees of degradation are a classification to determine the degree of biodegradability of a product. According to the European Union, there are four types of grades:

• Total biodegradation: completely decomposes in less than six months.
• Partial Biodegradability– Decomposes in less than six months, although residue may be left behind.
• Non -biodegradable– does not break down at all.
• Biodegradation with residue: decomposes in less than six months, leaving behind waste.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of biodegradable?

The main advantages of these articles are:

• They are ecologically responsible because they do not pollute the ecosystem.
• They help reduce the use of non-biodegradable plastics and are recyclable.

The main drawbacks of products with degradation are:

• Require more energy for their manufacture.
• Not all items involving biodegradation are recyclable.
• They can produce unpleasant odors during the biodegradation process.

What is the process of degradation of a material?

The degradation process ranges from the decomposition of a cell to the elimination of a molecule. Most of the biodegradability process breaks down in soil, although some do so in water or air. Microorganisms are responsible for degradation, as they have the ability to digest organic elements. They are divided into two groups:

• Those that feed on inorganic compounds, such as sulfur or iron.
• Those that feed on organic compounds, such as cellulose, protein or glycogen.

In fact, when a biodegradable comes into contact with microorganisms, a reaction occurs in which energy, water and carbon dioxide are released. The biodegradation process is important because it helps to reduce the volume of waste, favors recycling, and reduces the environmental impact. In addition, it improves the soil and reduces energy and water consumption.

Types of biodegradable materials

There are several types of biodegradability components, each with its own characteristics. There are two main types, which are essential to know:

1.    Bioplastics

They are biodegradable plastics made from natural raw materials such as cellulose or sugar. They are made to biodegrade in the environment. These biodegradable plastics are being used more and more, especially in consumer items such as packaging or kitchen utensils. Some companies are betting on them as an alternative to conventional plastics, which are very difficult to recycle.