degradables
Degradables are materials that are designed to break down under environmental conditions through biological, chemical, or physical processes. They are used to reduce persistence in the environment and to align product life cycles with waste-management streams.
Common forms include biodegradable plastics, which may break down by biological activity; compostable materials, which meet
Degradation mechanisms vary: biodegradation yields microbes and biomass; photodegradation uses UV light to fragment polymers; hydrolysis
Standards and labeling help define when a material is considered compostable or biodegradable, with examples including
Environmental and policy considerations emphasize that degradables are not a universal solution to waste; improper disposal
See also: biodegradable plastics, bioplastics, compostable, oxo-degradable.