The term “biodegradable” is used to describe material that has the ability to decompose naturally and relatively quickly, by biological means, into its basic organic elements. This process usually involves the actions of bacteria, fungi or other living organisms. For a material to decompose it must be exposed to light, water and bacterial activity. Organic matter can degrade aerobically with oxygen or anaerobically without oxygen.
 

Biodegradable products are usually produced with organic material derived from plant matter like corn (PLA), sugarcane (bagasse) and reed, animal matter or other natural mineral-based substances. These materials occur naturally in the environment and products made with them will return to their basic state as they decompose. This allows these products to be composted in commercial composting facilities thereby reducing the large volume of waste in our landfills.

 

On the other hand non-biodegradable petroleum based products combine elements that are not found in nature and there are no corresponding microorganisms to break them down leading to long rates of decomposition. They are often toxic and because they remain in the environment a long time they may pollute the soil and water.