
What is the difference between biodegradable, and non-biodegradable waste?
Answer
516k+ views
16 likes
Hint: Some waste materials are of such a composition that they either decay naturally or can be decayed under the effect of enzymes released by the microbes. But, some wastes contain more stable and complex materials that are not easily degraded.
Complete answer:
Following are the differences between biodegradable and non-biodegradable waste:
Note: Biodegradable substances are not harmful to the environment as they do not persist for a longer period while non-biodegradable substances persist for a longer duration of time and maintain their chemical toxicity, thus causing environmental pollution.
Complete answer:
Following are the differences between biodegradable and non-biodegradable waste:
Biodegradable waste | Non-biodegradable waste |
Biodegradable wastes are those substances that degrade or break down naturally. | Non-biodegradable wastes are those substances that do not degrade easily. |
Materials like plants, animals, their waste, paper, fruits, vegetables fall under the category of biodegradable substances. | Materials such as rubber, plastic, chemicals, paint plastic fall under the category of the non-biodegradable items. |
The biodegradable waste occurs from natural products such as kitchen waste, organic waste, paper, etc. | It is usually seen that non-biodegradable substances are chemically synthesized and does not occur naturally. |
The rate of decomposition of biodegradable waste is fast. | The rate of decomposition of the non- biodegradable waste is slow. |
Microorganisms organisms like bacteria, fungi, and others have the capability of decomposing the material into the soil. | The non- biodegradable substances do not degrade easily or by the action of natural agents. |
After degradation, the biodegradable substances can be used to produce biogas, manure, fertilizers, compost. | As the degradation rate of non-biodegradable waste is slow and the separation and recycling are not easy and expensive too. |
Note: Biodegradable substances are not harmful to the environment as they do not persist for a longer period while non-biodegradable substances persist for a longer duration of time and maintain their chemical toxicity, thus causing environmental pollution.
Latest Vedantu courses for you
Grade 11 Science PCM | CBSE | SCHOOL | English
CBSE (2025-26)
School Full course for CBSE students
₹41,848 per year
Recently Updated Pages
Master Class 11 Business Studies: Engaging Questions & Answers for Success

Master Class 11 Economics: Engaging Questions & Answers for Success

Master Class 11 Accountancy: Engaging Questions & Answers for Success

Master Class 11 Computer Science: Engaging Questions & Answers for Success

Master Class 11 English: Engaging Questions & Answers for Success

Master Class 11 Maths: Engaging Questions & Answers for Success

Trending doubts
Which one is a true fish A Jellyfish B Starfish C Dogfish class 11 biology CBSE

The flightless birds Rhea Kiwi and Emu respectively class 11 biology CBSE

Difference Between Prokaryotic Cells and Eukaryotic Cells

1 ton equals to A 100 kg B 1000 kg C 10 kg D 10000 class 11 physics CBSE

One Metric ton is equal to kg A 10000 B 1000 C 100 class 11 physics CBSE

How much is 23 kg in pounds class 11 chemistry CBSE
