Compostable or biodegradable: What's the difference and why is it important?
Understanding the False Friends of Sustainable Development
Many products are labeled "biodegradable", but that doesn't mean they're actually environmentally friendly. The real sustainable alternative? Compostable bags.
Biodegradable Bags: A Deceptive Term
Not all biodegradable bags will disappear!
- Many require specific conditions (temperature, humidity, bacteria) to decompose.
- Some fragment into microplastics, polluting soil and oceans.
- No clear standards: the term "biodegradable" does not guarantee rapid degradation.
Compostable Bags: The Real Ecological Alternative
🌱 Unlike conventional biodegradable bags, compostable bags are EN 13432 certified, guaranteeing:
✅ Complete decomposition in a few months into industrial or domestic compost.
✅ Zero microplastic or toxic residues.
✅ A virtuous cycle that enriches soils instead of polluting them.
| Features | Biodegradable bags | Compostable bags |
|---|---|---|
| Degradation time | Months to years | 3 to 6 months |
| Microplastics? | Possible | No |
| European standard? | No | Yes (EN 13432) |
| Impact on soil | Potential pollution | Soil fertilization |