Explain the difference.
Degradable and non-degradable waste
Solution
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Biodegradable waste |
Non-biodegradable waste |
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(i) |
Biodegradable waste can be degraded or broken down into simpler, harmless substances by living organisms like microbes or microorganism |
Non-biodegradable waste cannot be degraded or broken down into simpler substances by living organisms. |
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(ii) |
The degradation process in Biodegradable waste is fast |
The degradation process in Non-Biodegradable waste is slower than in biodegradable |
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(iii) |
Biodegradable waste is not collected but is used up in a short time |
Non-Biodegradable waste often collected |
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(iv) |
Breakdown of these wastes enriches the soil such as plant and animal wastes. Therefore, such wastes are beneficial for the soil. |
They do not break down and cause soil pollution. For e.g. plastics, glass, etc. Such wastes are harmful to the soil. |
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(vi) |
Biodegradable waste has become part of biogeochemical cycles and give back quick turnover |
Most of Non-Biodegradable waste can never enter biogeochemical cycles, very slow and more harmful for earth |
