Question & Answer » Biology Questions » Distinguish Between Biodegradable and Non-Biodegradable Substances

Distinguish Between Biodegradable and Non-Biodegradable Substances

Answer: Biodegradable wastes are materials that naturally decompose or break down.

  • Plants, animals and their excrement, as well as paper, fruits and vegetables are examples of biodegradable materials

  • Kitchen garbage, organic waste, paper and other natural materials are examples of biodegradable waste

  • The degradation of biodegradable trash occurs quickly

  • Bacteria, fungi and other microorganisms are capable of degrading the substance and releasing it into the soil

  • Biodegradable substances can be used to make biogas, manure, fertilisers and compost once they have degraded

Non-biodegradable materials are compounds that take a long time to decompose.

  • Non-biodegradable materials include rubber, plastic, chemicals and paint plastic

  • Non-biodegradable compounds are often chemically manufactured and do not occur naturally

  • The non-biodegradable trash takes a long time to decompose

  • Non-biodegradable compounds are not easily degraded or degraded by natural mechanisms

  • Because the rate of decomposition of non-biodegradable trash is slow, separation and recycling are difficult and costly