The term biodegradable has become a common term for consumers as well as environmental scientists. Scientifically, it refers to materials or substances that can be broken down, and then decomposed by natural processes into simpler, non-harmful compounds. Microorganisms such as bacteria or fungi carry out this decomposition into organic matter. For consumers, it means choosing biodegradable packaging where possible to reduce environmental impact.
Origin of the term biodegradable and application
The term “biodegradable” was first used in 1959 and is comprised of “bio” meaning life/organic life, with its root “grad” meaning to step or move. Its prefix “de,” meaning downward, produces an adjective describing things that can be broken down into basic substances through normal environmental processes.
The term is frequently found in environmental discussions around waste management and reducing the environmental footprint of products, unlike non-biodegradable materials that persist in the environment for extended periods. However, as awareness has grown around the environmental consequences of non-biodegradable waste, biodegradability has become a key consideration in product design and consumption, and waste management strategies to reduce solid waste and pollution of land and water.
Promoting the use of biodegradable materials aligns with efforts to create a more sustainable and environmentally friendly society. Innovations in biodegradable products, such as bioplastics and compostable packaging, contribute to minimizing the impact of human activities on the environment and fostering a more circular and sustainable approach to resource use.
