From coffee cups to cutlery, the term “compostable” is appearing more frequently on products and packaging. But what does it truly signify, and why is it causing such a buzz in the eco-community? Dive in as we unravel the mystery behind compostability and why it's a pivotal step towards a greener planet.
Compostable vs. Biodegradable: What's the Difference?
At first glance, “compostable” and “biodegradable” might seem interchangeable. However, they're distinctly different:
- Biodegradable: Refers to any material that naturally breaks down over time. However, this could take hundreds of years, and the decomposition might produce harmful residues.
- Compostable: These materials decompose within a few months in a composting environment, at home and/or in a commercial setting, turning into nutrient-rich compost that can be used to plant new life. They leave no toxic residue and often require specific conditions to break down efficiently.
Why Compostable is a Game-Changer
- Zero Waste: Compostable products return to the earth as nourishing compost, promoting a circular economy.
- Reduces Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Composting organic materials prevents them from ending up in landfills, where they'd produce methane – a potent greenhouse gas.
- Promotes Soil Health: The resulting compost enhances soil structure, reduces erosion, and increases its water retention capability.
A Step-By-Step Breakdown of Cirqular’s Compostable Products Decomposition
- Introduction to Composting Environment: Once discarded, our products can be placed in a home-composting bin or sent to an industrial composting facility, where they're exposed to the right balance of microbes, moisture, and warmth.
- Microbial Action: Beneficial microbes start consuming the product, breaking down its organic molecules. This process releases water, carbon dioxide, and heat.
- Physical Breakdown: As the microbes work, the once mighty compostable product begins to lose its original form, fragmenting into smaller pieces.
- Full Decomposition: Within a few months, the compostable product becomes entirely decomposed. At this stage, it becomes indistinguishable from other organic matter in the compost pile.
- Maturation: The compost is left to mature, during which time it stabilizes and any pathogens are killed off due to the heat generated in the earlier stages.
- Harvesting: The mature compost is harvested, screened to remove any non-composted materials, and is then ready to enrich the soil.
So What?
The term “compostable” is more than just a buzzword – it's a promise of a product that respects the environment, from creation to decomposition. By understanding and embracing compostability, we're not just making eco-friendly choices but investing in a sustainable future for our planet. That’s Cirqular.