Kompostovatelné

Kompostovatelné refers to materials that can be decomposed by biological processes, such as those carried out by microorganisms and invertebrates, into natural elements like humus, water, and carbon dioxide. This decomposition process, known as composting, transforms organic waste into a nutrient-rich soil amendment. For a material to be considered truly compostable, it must break down within a specified timeframe under composting conditions, without leaving behind any toxic residues or microplastics.

The term "compostable" is often associated with packaging and single-use products as an alternative to conventional plastics. However, it is crucial to distinguish compostable materials from biodegradable ones. While all compostable materials are biodegradable, not all biodegradable materials are compostable. Biodegradability simply means a material can break down, but it doesn't specify the conditions or timeframe, nor does it guarantee the absence of harmful byproducts. Compostable materials, on the other hand, are designed to break down in specific composting environments, whether industrial or home composting systems, and meet established standards for decomposition and non-toxicity.

Certification marks, such as those from organizations like BPI (Biodegradable Products Institute) in North America or TÜV Austria in Europe, indicate that a product has been tested and verified to meet compostability standards. Proper disposal is key; compostable items are intended for composting facilities and should not be placed in regular recycling bins, as they can contaminate recycling streams.