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