Biodegradable
Biodegradable
Biodegradable (pronunciation: /ˌbaɪoʊdɪˈɡreɪdəbəl/) is a term used to describe substances that can be broken down by the natural processes of living organisms. The term is often used in relation to materials that are designed to decompose in the environment over time, reducing their impact on the environment.
Etymology
The term "biodegradable" is derived from the Greek word "bios" meaning "life" and the Latin word "degradare" meaning "to reduce in rank or status". It was first used in the mid-20th century as a way to describe materials that could be broken down by biological processes.
Related Terms
- Biodegradation: The process by which biodegradable materials are broken down by the action of living organisms, such as bacteria and fungi.
- Compostable: A term used to describe materials that can be decomposed into nutrient-rich soil by the action of microbes.
- Environmentally Friendly: A term used to describe products or processes that have a reduced impact on the environment.
- Sustainability: The practice of using resources in a way that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Biodegradable
- Wikipedia's article - Biodegradable
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