Biodegradable and Non-biodegradable Substances: Definition, Examples and Differences

The substances which needs to be discarded after primary use are called wastes. Biodegradable and non-biodegradable substances are the two important classification of wastes. From our daily activities, we generate tons of waste every year, some of which disappears over time through the action of microorganisms, heat and pressure.

The primary difference between biodegradable and non-biodegradable substances arises on the basis of their components. Biodegradable substances are made entirely of natural materials while non-degradable substances are made of synthetic components. However, some of them remain on Earth for a long time and do not decompose or degrade with the help of natural components. Such wastes create dangerous environmental problems.

In this article we will discuss biodegradable and non-biodegradable substances in detail with their nature, differences and examples.

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Biodegradable Wastes

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The decomposable materials that can be broken down easily by biological processes are known as Biodegradable wastes. These wastes originate from plants and other natural sources. They are considered non-polluting in nature and degrade with the help of microorganisms as well as abiotic factors such as oxygen, UV rays, temperature, water, etc.

• The microorganisms including bacteria and fungi, break down these complex organic substances into simpler inorganic substances.
• The wastes after complete decomposition eventually get dissolved into the soil.
• Biodegradable wastes are eco-friendly and can be utilised as fertilizers, compost and biogas. 

Significance of Biodegradable Wastes

Biodegradable waste takes some time to decompose, leading to heaps of garbage. Therefore, composting process is preferred to dispose the waste faster. Compost is prepared by decomposing food and plant waste, which is a form of recycling organic matter to create natural fertilizer. 

• Complete decomposition of biodegradable waste promotes sustainable consumption. 
• Proper consumption of these recyclable wastes maintains the overall ecological balance. 
• Decomposition of biodegradable waste does not cause any pollution and harm to the environment.

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Non-Biodegradable wastes

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Those wastes which cannot be decomposed into simpler forms and thus persist in the environment for a long time and cause harm to the ecosystem are called non-biodegradable wastes. Such waste includes metals, plastics, shoes, glass, batteries etc. Many chemicals and pesticides also do not decompose properly and hence fall into this category. Excessive accumulation and incomplete degradation of non-biodegradable waste is associated with dangerous problems at every tropical level.

Plastic, used almost everywhere in the form of carry bags, containers, polythene, toys, etc., remains unchanged on the earth for thousands of years. Moreover, if left untreated, they can potentially dry out and block sewage channels. Since they are not perishable, many scientific methods are used to reuse or recycle them. However, not all non-biodegradable waste is recyclable, so they are considered 'non-recyclable waste'.

Impacts of Non-Biodegradable Wastes

With the changes in our lifestyle over years, great impacts are visible in our surroundings. From kulhars to tea served in paper cups, increasing production of metal-based and plastic products, improper waste disposal techniques, untreated waste and accumulation of such substances is continuously impacting the well-being of our environment. This is a huge threat to living organisms.

Such wastes are hazardous, and not at all environment friendly, they require proper disposal techniques like recycling and reusing, they cause pollution and also harm living organisms. Untreated waste like plastic clogs drains, is eaten by stray animals leading to their death, disrupts marine life and releases toxic chemicals.

Once the type of waste is determined, a strategy is made to separate it from the source. Therefore, proper waste management is the need of the hour. To handle waste strategically the '3Rs of waste management’ (Reduce, Reuse and Recycling) are given priority.

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Difference between Biodegradable and Non-Biodegradable Substances

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Here are some major differences between biodegradable and non-biodegradable substances that are listed below in tabular form: 

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Examples of Biodegradable and Non-Biodegradable Substances

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Here are some detailed examples of biodegradable and non-biodegradable substances that are mentioned below: 

Examples of Biodegradable Wastes

Vegetable peels, dried leaves, and dead animals change their appearance over time. The peels then turns black, shrink and probably dissolve after a specific period of time. Such substances which disappear due to the action of microorganisms like bacteria, fungi on them are termed as Biodegradable waste. They are eco-friendly and barely poses any threat to their surroundings. Here are some common examples of biodegradable wastes listed below: 

• Green waste such as food wastes, 
• Paper waste, 
• Wood,
• Human waste, 
• Manure, 
• Fruits, 
• Dried or vegetable leaves.

Examples of Non- Biodegradable Wastes

The most common example of Non Biodegradable wastes is plastic. From the packaging of products to water bottles, plastic is used rapidly. It is a leading cause of soil, water, and air pollution. The burning of plastic releases a huge amount of toxic gases including black carbon and is a threat to vegetation, human health, and climatic conditions. Apart from plastic, there are some more examples of non-biodegradable wastes such as: 

• Bottles and jars
• Synthetic fabrics such as nylon and polyster
• Electronic wastes, 
• Footwear, 
• Chemicals and pesticides
• Water bottles, 
• Aluminium foils, 
• Toffee wrappers, 
• Metal cans