Biodegradable vs. Compostable
What is the Difference?
Published Jan 25, 2021 | Updated Nov 15, 2024
Reading time: 7 minutes
Alpaca wool
Merino wool
Alpaca wool
Striving for Sustainability
Global warming, carbon footprints and eco-friendly products are terms we encounter everywhere. With our planet changing rapidly, many of us want to understand how we can help slow down the warming process affecting our world.
With nearly 8 billion people on the planet, waste generation has become an enormous problem, with plastic and styrofoam clogging our waterways. In response, many companies are exploring eco-friendly alternatives to plastic for everyday items.
Ideally, these products are made from plant-based materials and free from harmful chemicals. As a consumer, you’ll often see labels like “biodegradable” and “compostable.” Both terms sound promising. Let’s take a closer look at each to get down to the nitty-gritty of earth-friendly waste disposal.
What does biodegradable mean?
When something is discarded and left to decompose, it eventually breaks down into tiny pieces. For a product to be truly biodegradable, those pieces must be natural so they can be absorbed back into the earth without leaving harmful chemicals behind.
Clothing made from natural fibers is a great example. Wool or cotton clothing may be biodegradable, but if synthetic dyes are used, they could leave chemicals behind [1]. That’s why we’re continually working on our natural color line, using dyes sourced directly from nature that leave no trace when biodegrading [2,3].
Biodegradation occurs when natural microorganisms like bacteria and fungi break down an object [4]. Some materials decompose quickly, while others take months or even years.
However, an item’s ability to fully decompose depends on its environment. Landfills, crammed with various types of waste, are not ideal for natural decomposition. Many biodegradable products don’t break down properly in landfills and may even release methane gas—a potent greenhouse gas—during partial decomposition [5]. Yikes!
Eco-word play
Since the “green” movement began in the 1960s-70s, consumers and producers alike have been navigating appropriate terminology [6]. Without concrete rules and regulations, many products were incorrectly labeled as 'biodegradable' when they were actually just 'degradable' [7].
In 2015, National Geographic conducted a study on how different types of plastic bags degrade over time. One researcher buried a bag labeled as “biodegradable” into soil for three years. When excavated, the bag could still hold groceries. Although labeled as "biodegradable," the bag was simply breaking down into microplastics, which have since spread across the planet. Additionally, as plastic bags degrade, they can release harmful chemicals. This study highlights the unclear terminology and misleading packaging often used with these products.
Recently, the code of federal regulations has tightened the rules defining and labeling biodegradable products. According to the updated guidelines, a product can only be labeled as “biodegradable” if it will fully decompose into a natural state within a year of its “customary disposal” [8].
2. Fiber diameter
The thickness of the fiber can determine whether a garment will itch or feel soft against the skin. Coarse wool fibers tend to be quite itchy, while very fine fibers —those measuring less than 21 microns— are much softer. As we know, if a fiber feels itchy, it may eventually lead to some type of allergy or skin reaction.
At Arms of Andes we use the finest Royal Alpaca Wool sourced in the Peruvian Andes. The Andean alpacas naturally developed over thousands of years in harsh conditions in high altitudes, creating the perfect fiber for outdoor gear that helps you stay protected in all conditions. Discover our outdoor apparel.
In the textile industry, companies that produce garments made entirely from Merino wool typically use fibers that are 17.5 microns or finer to minimize any itchiness or roughness, [4] ensuring comfort for their customers. A study conducted by the Division of Dermatology at the University of Louisville in 2019 evaluated the effects of wearing these garments on individuals with skin sensitivities, such as atopic dermatitis or eczema. In the study, 25 participants wore only Merino wool garments of 17.5 microns for six weeks and cotton garments of 21 microns for six weeks more, while another group of 25 followed the reverse order. Participants reported significant changes when switching from cotton to Merino wool, with those who started in Merino wool experiencing a decrease in their eczema during the first weeks. [4]
What does compostable mean?
Composting is a process that involves mixing dry and wet natural waste to create nutrient-rich soil for fertilizing [9]. To compost effectively specific guidelines should be followed, and the organic materials used must be free of chemical residues [10].
Incorporating composting into daily life is a great way to reduce your ecological footprint. There are generally two main methods for composting household waste: industrial composting and at-home composting [11].
Industrial composting
Many cities have composting facilities that accept organic waste where special machinery speeds up the natural decomposition process, allowing for a broader range of materials to be composted efficiently.
Fun fact: many 'eco-friendly plastic' products are only truly eco-friendly if sent to an industrial composting facility. They won’t properly decompose in a landfill or home compost system. Find your local composting facility in your area to ensure proper disposal of your organic waste.
Composting at home
Starting a home compost can feel intimidating, but it’s a fantastic way to give back to the earth, even on a small scale. By combining “green” and “brown” organic materials with water, you can create nutrient-rich fertilizer soil in your backyard. Numerous online resources can help you get started.
However, home composting has limitations. To avoid attracting animals, it’s best not to include animal products, and only small amounts of oil should be added to your compost pile.
At Arms of Andes we use the finest Royal Alpaca Wool sourced in the Peruvian Andes. The Andean alpacas naturally developed over thousands of years in harsh conditions in high altitudes, creating the perfect fiber for outdoor gear that helps you stay protected in all conditions.
Discover our outdoor apparel.
In conclusion: biodegradable vs. compostable
Digging into this topic shows that well-intentioned waste disposal is more complex than it seems. This complexity stems partly from a lack of clear regulations over the years and partly from the intricate chemical makeup of many “eco-friendly” products.
On the bright side, lawmakers are working internationally to establish clearer labeling guidelines for eco-friendly products. This will help eliminate guesswork when purchasing and disposing of these items.
The takeaway: biodegradable products should break down naturally, even in a landfill, within approximately one year. Compostable products, however, are best sent to an industrial composting facility, though some may be suitable for disposal in a backyard compost pile.
How can I live a more sustainable life?
In short: try to generate less waste. Biodegradable and compostable products are design to make our world a little cleaner, but it’s important to know how to dispose of them properly.
Arms of Andes is proud to partner with Better Packaging Co., a company that creates 100% biodegradable and home-compostable packaging.
At Arms of Andes, we’ve developed a line of garments that can return to the earth at the end of their life cycle. Our naturally dyed and natural white shirts, beanies, and neck gaiters are specially made to be biodegradable, leaving no trace behind.
Our commitment to alpaca wool and love for nature inspire us to continuously use planet-friendly materials, dyes, and processes. Our line of naturally dyed garments marks just the beginning of our sustainable journey. Once worn and cherished, these items can return to the earth and continue the natural cycle.
Alpaca wool is fully biodegradable and decomposes in warm, moist environments. To compost your alpaca garment, we recommend removing any zippers, cutting it into smaller pieces, and burying them in the soil. As the alpaca wool breaks down, it releases keratin, adding nitrogen to the soil and helping nearby plants grow.
From earth-friendly alpaca clothing to a low carbon footprint, Arms of Andes is dedicated to creating sustainable garments that are good for our planet.
Glossarykeywords
Carbon Footprint:
The total amount of greenhouse gases generated by the activities of a person, organization, or product.
Decomposing into a natural state:
The process by which a material breaks down into simple, non-toxic substances, such as water, carbon dioxide, biomass, or minerals, that can be safely absorbed by the environment. This means the material leaves no plastic residues or pollutants and can reintegrate into the ecosystem without disrupting its natural balance.
Eco-friendly:
A term describing products or practices that have a low negative impact on the environment.
Greenhouse Gas:
Gases in the atmosphere that trap heat from the sun, contributing to global warming. Examples include carbon dioxide (CO₂) and methane (CH₄).
Keratin:
A protein found in biological materials like wool and hair; it decomposes and releases nutrients into the soil as it breaks down.
Natural Fibers:
Fibers that come from natural sources like plants or animals, such as cotton, wool, or alpaca.
Styrofoam:
A type of lightweight, rigid plastic often used for food containers and packaging. It’s difficult to recycle and takes a long time to break down in the environment.
Alpaca wool (particularly the royal and baby alpaca fiber grades) is non-itchy, warm, and performs better than merino and other types of sheep's wool. This makes alpaca wool perfect for your outdoor clothing, slipper socks, and even underwear.
Glossarykeywords
Carbon Footprint:
The total amount of greenhouse gases generated by the activities of a person, organization, or product.
Decomposing into a natural state:
The process by which a material breaks down into simple, non-toxic substances, such as water, carbon dioxide, biomass, or minerals, that can be safely absorbed by the environment. This means the material leaves no plastic residues or pollutants and can reintegrate into the ecosystem without disrupting its natural balance.
Eco-friendly:
A term describing products or practices that have a low negative impact on the environment.
Greenhouse Gas:
Gases in the atmosphere that trap heat from the sun, contributing to global warming. Examples include carbon dioxide (CO₂) and methane (CH₄).
Keratin:
A protein found in biological materials like wool and hair; it decomposes and releases nutrients into the soil as it breaks down.
Natural Fibers:
Fibers that come from natural sources like plants or animals, such as cotton, wool, or alpaca.
Styrofoam:
A type of lightweight, rigid plastic often used for food containers and packaging. It’s difficult to recycle and takes a long time to break down in the environment.
References:
[1] Nayak, R., Singh, A., Panwar, T., & Padhye, R. (2019). A review of recent trends in sustainable fashion and textile production. Workforce, 13, 11-12. 10.19080/CTFTTE.2019.04.555648
[2] Ado, A., Yahaya, H., Kwalli, A. A., & Abdulkadir, R. S. (2014). Dyeing of textiles with eco-friendly natural dyes: a review. International Journal of Environmental Monitoring and Protection, 1(5), 76-81. 10.26540/ijgsr.v10.i1.2023.237
[3] Handayani, W., Kristijanto, A. I., & Hunga, A. I. R. (2018). Are natural dyes eco-friendly? A case study on water usage and wastewater characteristics of batik production by natural dyes application. Sustainable Water Resources Management, 4(4), 1011-1021. 10.1007/s40899-018-0217-9
[4]McMullan, G., Meehan, C., Conneely, A., Kirby, N., Robinson, T., Nigam, P., ... & Smyth, W. F. (2001). Microbial decolourisation and degradation of textile dyes. Applied microbiology and biotechnology, 56, 81-87. https://doi.org/10.1007/s002530000587
[5] Moazzem, S., Wang, L., Daver, F., & Crossin, E. (2021). Environmental impact of discarded apparel landfilling and recycling. Resources, conservation and recycling, 166, 105338. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.resconrec.2020.105338
[6] Doherty, B. (2002). Ideas and Actions in the Green Movement (1st ed.). Routledge. https://doi.org/10.4324/9780203994108