Biodegradable vs compostable vs recyclable

Sustainability words are not supposed to be a puzzle. These three are often mixed up. They sound similar. They work very differently. Here is a plain guide you can use today.

Quick definitions you can trust

Biodegradable

Material can be broken down by living organisms into smaller components under the right conditions. The word alone does not tell you how long it will take, what conditions are needed, or what is left behind. Biodegradable is not a free pass for litter. Conditions in nature and in landfills are very different.

Compostable

Material can turn into compost in a controlled composting process without toxic residue. In practice, this usually means an industrial composting facility with managed heat, moisture, and oxygen. Some items are home compostable, which break down in a backyard pile, usually more slowly. Look for a clear label that says home or industrial.

Recyclable

Material can be collected and processed into new products. This depends on the material and the local system where you live. Clean glass and metals are widely recycled. Mixed‑material pouches and dirty packaging usually are not. When in doubt, check your local program.

How they differ in real life

• Biodegradable speaks to a process, not a time frame. Without context, it gives little guidance on disposal.

• Compostable speaks to a controlled process that makes usable compost. It requires the right facility or a verified home compostable label.

• Recyclable speaks to a system that must exist where you live. Collection and sorting rules vary by city.

Everyday examples and what to do

Item	What it is	Best next step
Banana peel	Compostable at home	Home compost or organics bin
Glass jar	Recyclable when clean	Rinse, remove lid if required, recycle
Aluminum can	Recyclable and highly valued	Rinse and recycle
Paper mailer	Often recyclable if not plastic‑coated	Recycle if clean; check for coatings
PLA bioplastic cup labeled “compostable”	Usually needs industrial composting	Use the organics bin only if your facility accepts it; otherwise, landfill
Multi‑layer chip bag	Mixed materials	Landfill, unless your city offers a special drop‑off
“Biodegradable” trash bag	Biodegradable under certain conditions	Do not compost unless certified as compostable; landfill is typical
Takeout box labeled “compostable”	Often fiber‑based compostable	Organics bin if accepted locally; remove plastic window

A tiny decision tree

1. Is this a single material that your city collects well? If yes, recycle it clean.

2. Does the label say compostable? If yes, look for home or industrial. Use the organics bin only if your facility accepts it.

3. If neither applies or the label is vague, reduce and reuse first. Then landfill without guilt.

Common myths

“Biodegradable means it will disappear anywhere.”

Not true. Many items do not break down quickly in the ocean or a cold landfill.

“Compostable plastic can go in my garden.”

Only if it is clearly home compostable. Most compostable plastics are designed for industrial conditions.

“If it has a recycle symbol, it is recyclable.”

That symbol can mark the plastic type. Actual recyclability depends on your local program and on the item being clean and sorted.

Quick FAQ

What is the difference between biodegradable and compostable?

Biodegradable is a broad promise that something can be broken down by microbes at some point. Compostable is a verified process that turns material into compost under defined conditions without toxic residue.

What is industrial composting?

A managed process that maintains heat, moisture, and airflow to turn organics into compost efficiently. Many cities do not have access. Always check local acceptance.

Can I recycle something that is a bit dirty?

Food and liquid contamination can spoil a batch. A quick rinse is worth it. If it is very dirty, landfill is more honest.

Are “compostable” or “biodegradable” better than recyclable?

Context matters. A durable, reusable item often beats any single‑use option. After reuse, pick the end‑of‑life path that actually works where you live.

How do I tell if something is home compostable?

Look for clear home‑compostable wording or certification marks from credible programs. If the label is vague, assume it needs industrial conditions.

Why Kyndly exists

Jargon should not stand between you and better choices. Kyndly highlights products that keep materials simple, share disposal guidance in plain language, and favor real‑world systems such as reliable recycling or accepted organics collection. Progress, not perfection.

Internal links to add later: Eco labels explained; How to spot greenwashing; Plastic recycling codes.