Biodegradable vs. Degradable Products

Do you know the difference between biodegradable products and commonly found products that are labeled "degradable"?

Many plastic products on the market claim to be biodegradable but are actually oxo-degradable plastic.  These degradable plastics are manufactured by combining traditional plastics with additives which break down the plastic into small fragments.  Because conventional plastic is not biodegradable, the tiny fragments left behind from degradable plastics pose environmental and health concerns. 

Industry and consumers looking for a true biodegradable and sustainable substitute to conventional plastic materials should instead choose a certified 100% compostable plastic.  Under ambient conditions compostable materials will be broken down by microbes in the environment and consumed as a food source.  This is the process that converts carbon into energy and maintains life.

Look for the Biodegradable Products Institute (BPI) certification logo on products to ensure they are truly compostable.

How to spot the bad guys from the good guys?

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