Conventional plastics
Conventional plastics are made from non-renewable, petroleum-based resources and are highly persistent in the environment, often taking hundreds of years to degrade. Instead of fully breaking down, they fragment into microplastics that contribute to long-term pollution and pose risks to ecosystems and human health. These materials tend to accumulate in landfills, oceans, and natural environments, and offer limited sustainable end-of-life options, especially when not effectively recycled.
Biodegradable Materials
Biodegradable materials are designed to break down naturally through biological processes involving microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi. During this process, the material gradually converts into environmentally harmless substances including:
- Carbon dioxide
- Water
- Biomass
This natural breakdown significantly reduces long-term environmental persistence compared to conventional plastics.
Compostable Materials
Compostable materials are a specialised category of biodegradable materials that degrade under controlled composting conditions within a defined period.
When composted properly, these materials transform into nutrient-rich organic matter that can improve soil health and support plant growth.
Compostable materials are widely used in sustainable packaging and agricultural applications because they support closed-loop resource systems.