In our previous blog we discussed some interesting facts about some good naturally biodegradable resources that can replace synthetic plastic. Let us further learn about some of the other important and practical biodegradable materials in order to utilise them in our day-to-day activities:
1: Jute
Pros:
• Jute is a natural plant fibre made from the Jute plant (Corchorus sp.). It grows abundantly and is a very sustainable and hardy crop that is naturally resistant to pests and diseases.
• It does not require extensive use of pesticides and fertilizers, and it uses less water than many other plant crops.
• It is one of the most widely produced (second to cotton) and cheapest natural fibre.
• Jute is completely biodegradable and its pure form can be composted at home.
• The hardy fibre is widely known for its use as burlap, hessian, and thick ropes. The texture may be thick and coarse or fine and smooth, depending on the processing methods.
• Additionally, it is used to make a wide range of beautiful and high-end fashionable products that are inexpensive compared to other fibres. Especially popular items are beautiful jute baskets, bags, home decors (carpets, rugs, cushions, and drapes), and clothing made from jute yarn and textile fabric.
Cons:
• There are no notable disadvantages to jute material.
2: Wood and Timber
Pros:
• Wood is one of the staple materials that we use in almost every industry.
• As a natural plant material, untreated wood is completely biodegradable. Commercially grown trees are a renewable resource and contribute to carbon reduction from the atmosphere.
• Wood was once the staple material but cheap, light-weight materials like hard plastic and aluminium have replaced wood over the last couple of decades.
• There are many crops that are more sustainable than timber. However, timber is a better option when compared to the environmental impacts of plastic manufacturing.
• Wood is readily available and inexpensive, so it is used on every scale across almost every industry. For instance, basic furniture like chairs and tables as well as huge ships are made it out of wood.
• Some incredible and attractive items that are produced from versatile and durable wood are wooden utensils, cutlery, and crockery, soap holders and disposable nappies.
Cons
• Untreated wood is permeable and susceptible to water damage and molds, as well as gets infested by pests like termites and bugs.
• Wooden items often need to be thicker and heavier than the same item in metal or plastic material.
3: Areca Palm Leaf
Pros:
• Areca Palm leaves naturally fall from the palm trees growing in Areca Nut plantations.
• To obtain the leaves, we need not particularly cultivate or cut down the trees. So, we do not contribute to deforestation as the leaves are sustainable resource and a by-product of other agricultural activities.
• The leaves are soaked and pressed into shapes to make beautiful and light-weight plates, bowls, and cups that are completely natural, biodegradable and home compostable.
• Moreover, these products are suitable for use in a microwave and hand washable. As they are disposable and easy to use, they are preferred by cafes and restaurants, as well as individuals to use them at parties and private events.
• In market, large range of economic items made from palm leaves like home decor and storage containers are available.
Cons:
• The Areca leaf products are not long-lasting, less durable, as well as designs and colours are limited compared to plastic products.
4: Avocado Bio-Plastic
Pros:
• Biofase is a bio-plastic made from Avocado seeds which are sustainable resource and a by-product of Avocado farming.
• The bio-plastic is a true biodegradable plastic and is home compostable. It can be used as an eco-friendly alternative for conventional plastic.
• Biofase is resilient and hardwearing, so the straws and cutlery made from it are reusable for several times and are great for restaurants and cafes, as well as retail stores and individuals.
Cons:
• Currently, the products are limited to straws and cutlery with a small range of design and colour selection.
• These are not long-lasting products (reusable up to 8 or 10 times).