Biodegradable plastic is often promoted as an environmentally friendly solution, but there is still confusion around what it actually means.
Terms like “biodegradable” and “compostable” are often used interchangeably, leading to misunderstandings about how these materials behave in real-world conditions.
Myth 1: All biodegradable plastics are the same
Fact: The term “biodegradable” can cover a wide range of materials and behaviours.
Some plastics require specific conditions, such as high heat or controlled environments, to break down as intended. If those conditions are not present, the material may not perform as expected.
Myth 2: Compostable plastics break down anywhere
Fact: Compostable plastics are designed to break down under controlled composting conditions, which typically include heat, oxygen, and moisture.
When disposed of in landfill, these conditions are not present, and decomposition may not occur as intended.
Myth 3: Sustainable plastics can’t match performance
Fact: Advances in material design mean that some alternative plastics can perform similarly to conventional materials in terms of strength and durability.
This allows businesses to adopt different materials without significantly changing how products are used.
Myth 4: Eco-friendly plastics don’t need to be recycled
Fact: Recycling remains a key part of responsible waste management.
Where facilities exist, recycling should be prioritised to keep materials in use and reduce the amount of waste entering landfill systems.
Myth 5: Landfill is always the worst outcome
Fact: While reducing waste is the most preferred option, landfill remains a reality in current waste systems.
Modern landfill environments are managed systems where biological processes can occur under anaerobic (low-oxygen) conditions.
A More Practical Approach to Plastic Waste
Biowrap products are engineered to biodegrade in modern bioactive landfill environments through microbial processes under anaerobic conditions.
The material is designed to remain stable during use, only beginning the biodegradation process once exposed to landfill conditions where microbial activity is present.
Biowrap materials are evaluated using recognised international testing methods, including ASTM D5511 and Biochemical Methane Potential (BMP) testing. Results may vary depending on landfill environments.
Why This Matters
Understanding how different materials behave at end-of-life helps businesses and consumers make more informed decisions.
Rather than relying on labels alone, it is important to consider how materials perform in real-world waste systems.
Learn More About Landfill Biodegradable Plastic
For a deeper explanation of landfill biodegradable plastic, explore the Biowrap eBook.
Explore Biowrap Products
Explore our range of landfill biodegradable products: