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In these times when environmental awareness is at its peak, searching for sustainable answers to day-to-day issues is very much needed. Waste management and, more specifically, waste carrier bags are among those areas now commanding wide attention. Traditional plastic carrier bags have a significant environmental impact; they take several centuries to break down, often resulting in oceanic pollution and landfills reaching their maximum capacity. That’s where biodegradable garbage bags come into play as a sustainable fix to help grasp such problems. So what exactly are biodegradable garbage bags, and how do they stand against their plastic alternatives? In this post, we look at biodegradable garbage bags’ benefits, types, and limitations in making life more sustainable.
What does “biodegradable” mean?
“Biodegradable” means that a certain material or item can break down naturally through microorganisms like bacteria, fungi, and algae. When a material is biodegradable, it decomposes into simpler, non-toxic components that can be naturally absorbed into the environment without leaving harmful residues, it turns into natural elements like carbon dioxide, water, and organic matter.
What are biodegradable garbage bags made of?
Most bags are made from cornstarch-based materials like Polylactic acid (PLA), but they can also be made using sugarcane and potato starch.
you might also hear about Oxodegradable Bags which have additives that promote oxidization thus making it faster to degrade.
It doesn’t matter which material is used as long as it is biodegradable then you’re good.
What are the benefits of biodegradable garbage bags?
1. Reduced environmental impact by reducing plastic pollution
Their ability to break down more quickly and to natural elements helps reduce the plastic waste that accumulates over time in landfills and oceans.
2. Lowering carbon footprint and improving soil health
A lot of biodegradable garbage bags are manufactured from renewable resources that help enrich the soil with organic matter for healthier plant growth. These resources have a lower carbon footprint compared with fossil-fuel-based plastics.
3. Lower greenhouse gas emissions
As the manufacturing of traditional plastic bags requires more greenhouse gas emissions that are harmful
4. Improving wildlife
One of the significant concerns regarding plastic is that there is a chance of ingestion and entanglement by animals and by using the fast degrading type of garbage bags, we can reduce this risk.
5. Versatility: Can be used anywhere in your household
As they come in various shapes and sizes, so you don’t need to worry about that.
What are the limitations and challenges of biodegradable garbage bags?
1. Composting Conditions and infrastructure
In order to fully decompose, biodegradable garbage bags need to meet certain conditions that are only found in industrial composting facilities as home conditions are usually insufficient. These facilities are increasing in number but are not found in all regions yet.
2. Contamination
If these bags are exposed to non-biodegradable materials they might get contaminated thus not being able to decompose properly
3. Durability
Some but not all biodegradable garbage bags may be less durable than their traditional counterparts which might be an issue for the consumer
4. Cost
While their prices are gradually decreasing, consumers may find that they are quite on the expensive side.
How to choose the right Biodegradable Garbage Bag?
1. Certification
BPI (Biodegradable Products Institute) is the leading authority on compostable products and packaging in North America.m So look for products that meet ASTM D6400 or D6868 testing standards
2. Composition
Choose biodegradable garbage bags that are composed of plant-based materials such as cornstarch and avoid anything containing synthetic materials.
3. Strength and durability
You should look for strong and durable ones as they should be able to replace your traditional garbage bags with no downsides.
4. Price and availability
Search your local stores or online for these biodegradable garbage bags and compare their prices to be able to choose the best and most cost-efficient one.
You can look at these options on Amazon if you are interested!
Conclusion
Biodegradable garbage bags represent a step forward in our efforts to reduce plastic waste and a more sustainable future. By combining the use of these bags with our green habits, we can help reduce waste and support new technologies and policies that can drive further advancements in biodegradable materials and waste reduction strategies.
All of this is just the beginning of a rapidly growing demand for biodegradable products and people’s awareness of the environmental impact of their choices.
If you are interested in more biodegradable and eco-friendly products you can check Top 10 Eco-Friendly Kitchen Products
