Biodegradable or Compostable: what's the difference?

We all want to do our best to be lower tox and look after our beautiful planet but sometimes the eco lingo is a bit confusing! Biodegradable and compostable are two words floating around that are often used interchangeably… but they have different meanings. Basically, compostable items are biodegradable, but not all biodegradable products are compostable. Let’s break it down (pardon the pun) together!  

Biodegradable  

Biodegradability is defined as the ability for a material to be broken down naturally by the organisms in an ecosystem. This happens in a way that is not harmful to the environment and is much kinder to the earth because there is no footprint left behind. Biodegradable items still take time to break down, but at much faster rate than their plastic counterparts… who will leave a permanent mark on our planet.  

Compostable  

In simple terms, compostability is essentially the next level beyond biodegradability. Like we said before, all compostable items are biodegradable. The difference is that not only do compostable items break down naturally, they then also create organic waste for reuse. As compostable items break down, they create something called humus which enriches and strengthens the soil.  

At Luvme, we are dedicated to doing what we can by creating products that are kind to the Earth. Our nappies are biodegradable and will biodegrade within 60-120 days, whereas a standard disposable nappy takes around 500 years to break down! Our Pandas range is 85% biodegradable (important note to cut off the leg elastic and remove the fastening tabs). Our eco Bamboo Wipes are 100% bamboo fibre and are completely biodegradable and compostable. Pandas Bamboo Nappies outer packaging is made from more than 70% plant-based, renewable and sustainable materials, FSC approved craft paper. We are constantly working towards providing more sustainable products and options!  

Original information & table design sourced from: https://www.wearkent.com/blogs/news/biodegradable-vs-compostable