Making sustainable choices in business can be challenging, especially with terms like "biodegradable" and "compostable" often used interchangeably or misleadingly. For companies striving to operate mindfully and more sustainably, understanding the true meanings of these terms is crucial. This is especially true for the consumer goods industry, which is increasingly adopting sustainable materials to mitigate its environmental impact.

In this blog, we will demystify the concepts of biodegradable and compostable materials, explore their implications and highlight how Balena’s pioneering approach and materials are driving improvements in sustainability. 

What Does Biodegradable Mean?

Biodegradable refers to materials that naturally decompose through the action of bacteria and fungi, breaking down into natural substances such as carbon dioxide, water vapor, and biomass. The timeframe for biodegradation varies widely, from a few weeks to potentially several centuries, depending on the material and environmental factors. While biodegradability includes some plastics, it's important to note that degradation rates can vary significantly. Some "biodegradable" plastics may degrade into harmful microplastics, contributing to environmental pollution.

What Does Compostable Mean?

Compostable materials, on the other hand, are specifically designed to break down under composting conditions, resulting in a single organic material. Composting is the process of recycling organic waste into nutrient-rich soil that benefits plant growth. Unlike biodegradable items, compostable materials do not leave behind toxic residues, making them a more sustainable option. Composting can be done at home or in commercial facilities that regulate environmental conditions necessary for composting. However, not all compostable products can be effectively composted at home; some require the controlled conditions of industrial compost facilities to break down properly.

Key Differences Between Biodegradable and Compostable Materials

Both biodegradable and compostable materials offer sustainable alternatives to petroleum-based plastics commonly found in consumer products, such as in the fashion industry, accessories and automotive. Biodegradable materials, break down faster than conventional plastics under various conditions (compost, landfill, soil). Plant-based biodegradable products (such as those made from corn oil or starch) degrade more easily. In contrast, compostable materials are specifically organic matter that decomposes into a beneficial end product, enriching soil health without leaving behind toxic residues. While biodegradable items may take years to break down and could potentially release toxins, compostable goods decompose efficiently and safely.

Balena is at the forefront of material innovation, by developing advanced materials that are both biodegradable and compostable.

This dual capability ensures that products made from Balena’s materials not only break down faster and more completely but also enrich the environment without harmful residues. Consequently, consumer goods products made from these materials are not only circular but also contribute positively to soil health and reduce environmental contamination. 

This innovation marks a significant step towards a more sustainable future. 

Internationally Recognized Standards

The development of the European Standard and US Standard ASTM standards lays down criteria for what can be described as compostable and what can be called biodegradable, helping manufacturers and businesses make informed choices.

Balena’s BioCir® materials are designed to meet the stringent requirements of compostability certifications, ensuring they break down in industrial composting facilities without leaving harmful residues. BioCir® materials are DIN CERTCO Biobased and Industrially Compostable certified. Our composition is based on fully biodegradable materials that meet U.S. (ASTM D6400-04) and E.U. (EN 13432) standards for composting in industrial composting facilities.

Furthermore, Balena collaborates with compost facilities to ensure products made from our materials are composted correctly and efficiently. By integrating with the existing composting infrastructure, Balena supports the creation of nutrient-rich compost that benefits agriculture and reduces waste sent to landfills. BioCir® materials comply with the EN 13432 standard, which requires compostable plastics to disintegrate after 12 weeks and completely biodegrade after 6 months. This means that 90 percent or more of the plastic material will have been converted to CO2, with the remaining share converted into water and biomass – i.e., valuable compost.This standard also includes tests to make sure that the material does not harm the soil or environment or contain any harmful chemicals.

Understanding the differences between biodegradable and compostable materials is essential for businesses committed to sustainability. Balena’s innovative materials represent a promising solution, helping the consumer goods industry to reduce waste. 

Learn more about our materials and processes here >>>