Biodegradable vs Compostable Plastic: Differences Explained

Biodegradable plastic breaks down naturally over time through microorganisms, while compostable plastic breaks down into non-toxic compost within a specific timeframe and under controlled composting conditions. In simple terms, all compostable plastics are biodegradable, but not all biodegradable plastics are compostable.

This distinction is important for manufacturers, retailers, and consumers who want sustainable packaging solutions that comply with environmental standards and regulations.

Biodegradable plastic is a type of plastic that microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi can break down into natural substances like water, carbon dioxide, methane, and biomass over time.

The degradation process depends on environmental conditions such as:

• Temperature
• Moisture
• Oxygen availability
• Microbial activity
• Sunlight exposure

• Breaks down naturally over time
• May degrade in soil, water, or landfill conditions
• Does not always leave behind safe or non-toxic residues
• Degradation time can vary from months to years

• Biodegradable plastic bags
• Packaging films
• Agricultural mulch films
• Disposable products

Compostable plastic is a type of biodegradable plastic that breaks down into nutrient-rich compost under controlled composting conditions without leaving harmful residues.

Compostable plastics require specific conditions to decompose effectively, including:

• High temperatures (usually 50–60°C)
• Controlled humidity
• Adequate oxygen
• Active microbial composting environments

• Breaks down into compost within a defined timeframe
• Leaves no toxic residues or microplastics
• Improves soil quality by producing compost
• Requires industrial or home composting facilities, depending on the material

• Compostable packaging
• Food waste bags
• Compostable cutlery and plates
• Organic waste collection liners

Feature	Biodegradable Plastic	Compostable Plastic
Definition	Breaks down naturally over time	Breaks down into compost under specific conditions
End Product	Water, CO₂, methane, biomass	Non-toxic compost, water, CO₂
Toxic Residues	May leave residues or microplastics	Must leave no toxic residues
Degradation Conditions	Natural environments	Controlled composting environments
Timeframe	Varies widely	Defined by certification standards
Certification Standards	Not always required	ISO 17088, IS 17088, EN 13432
Environmental Benefit	Reduces long-term plastic persistence	Creates useful compost and supports circular waste systems
Disposal Method	General waste, recycling, or specialized disposal	Composting facilities or home composting

Oxo biodegradable plastic is conventional plastic mixed with additives that accelerate oxidation and fragmentation when exposed to heat, light, or oxygen.

The additives cause the plastic to break into smaller fragments more quickly than regular plastic. However, these fragments may not fully biodegrade into natural substances.

Many environmental experts and regulatory bodies question the sustainability of oxo biodegradable plastics because they can:

• Fragment into microplastics
• Fail to fully biodegrade in natural conditions
• Contaminate recycling streams

Because of these concerns, several countries and regions have restricted or discouraged the use of oxo biodegradable plastics.

ISO 17088 is an international standard that specifies requirements for compostable plastics, including biodegradation, disintegration, and the absence of toxic effects on compost quality.

IS 17088 is the Indian standard aligned with ISO 17088. It defines the specifications for compostable plastics in India and is important for manufacturers complying with Indian regulations.

• EN 13432 (Europe)
• ASTM D6400 (United States)
• ASTM D6868 (compostable coatings and films)

Manufacturers should look for certified materials that meet these standards to ensure genuine compostability.

Understanding the difference biodegradable compostable is crucial for packaging and bag manufacturers because it affects:

• Product labeling
• Regulatory compliance
• Consumer trust
• Waste management compatibility
• Export requirements
• Material sourcing decisions

Manufacturers producing eco-friendly bags must choose materials based on the intended disposal system:

• Biodegradable bags may suit applications where natural degradation is the primary goal.
• Compostable bags are better for organic waste collection and composting systems where certified compostability is required.

The answer depends on the disposal infrastructure available.

• Better than conventional plastic in many cases
• Can reduce long-term environmental persistence
• May still create microplastic concerns if not fully degraded

• Provides clearer environmental benefits when composted correctly
• Supports organic waste diversion from landfills
• Produces useful compost for soil enrichment
• Requires proper composting facilities to work effectively

Without access to composting infrastructure, compostable plastics may not deliver their full environmental advantages.

False. Many biodegradable plastics require specific conditions to degrade efficiently and may persist for long periods in landfills or oceans.

False. Compostable plastics must meet stricter standards and break down into non-toxic compost within a defined timeframe.

False. Oxo biodegradable plastics may fragment into microplastics and are not considered truly compostable by most certification standards.

Biodegradable plastic breaks down naturally over time, while compostable plastic breaks down into non-toxic compost under controlled composting conditions within a specific timeframe.

Yes. All compostable plastics are biodegradable, but not all biodegradable plastics are compostable.

Compostable plastic meaning refers to plastic that can decompose into nutrient-rich compost without leaving harmful residues, usually under industrial or home composting conditions.

No. Oxo biodegradable plastic is not considered compostable because it may only fragment into smaller pieces rather than fully decompose into safe compost.

IS 17088 is the Indian standard for compostable plastics, aligned with the international ISO 17088 standard.