Question

What do you mean by biodegradable and non-biodegradable waste?

Answer 1

Hint:The unwanted substances that are thrown away are termed as wastes. They are categorised on the basis of whether they can be broken down into simpler substances or not.

Complete answer:
Wastes can be any substance that is no longer needed, or are meant to be thrown away. It can be in solid form like fruit and vegetable peels, liquid like sewage or gaseous in the form of smoke. Waste is produced from our homes, factories, hospitals and so on.
Waste can be divided into biodegradable and non-biodegradable wastes. Biodegradable wastes are wastes that can be broken down by the action of microorganisms into simpler and harmless substances. Wastes that are derived from living matter are biodegradable. Leftover food, vegetable and fruit peels, leaves, etc. are some examples of biodegradable wastes.
Wastes that cannot be broken down into simpler substances are called non-biodegradable wastes. The non-biodegradable does not rot or decay and remains in the soil for many years. Plastic, glass, and metal objects are non-biodegradable. They are a source of pollution of the environment.
The solid waste is commonly termed as garbage. Disposal of garbage has become a big issue in the world today. As such, steps are being taken to minimise their generation and their impact on the environment. Garbage is usually kept or thrown on bins. Separate coloured bins are assigned for the collection of wastes. A blue coloured bin is one where non-biodegradable waste materials are thrown. Biodegradable wastes are collected in green coloured bins.

Note:Non-biodegradable wastes not only pollute the environment but also pose a threat to the existence of several species of flora and fauna. It is thus essential to reduce the generation of wastes. We must practise the use of four Rs- Reuse, reduce, recycle and refuse.