"You can’t put that on the table – it’s compostable!"
We hear statements like this all the time when it comes to biodegradable products such as plant pots. But this common misunderstanding makes many people doubt bioplastics, which is completely unfair. In this article, we explain what biodegradable materials really do, why they do not "disintegrate on their own" and why they are even ideal for indoor use.
What does "biodegradable" really mean?
A biodegradable material is designed to break down naturally into its basic components – water, CO₂ and biomass. This happens because of tiny organisms called microorganisms, such as bacteria or fungi. But it's important to remember that degradation only happens when the right conditions are in place.
These conditions are necessary for biodegradability:
High temperatures
Hohe Luftfeuchtigkeit
oxygen supply
Microorganisms in sufficient quantities
You won't find this in your home, but it is common in places where compost is made, or in the soil if it's there for a long time. This means that a biodegradable plant pot will stay stable for a long time under normal use – often even for years.
Real-life proof: three years, still standing
About three years ago, we planted a houseplant in a biodegradable plant pot made from our GC green material, which consists of bio-PBS and natural fillers such as sunflower seed shells. The pot has not broken into pieces.
The plant's pot only looks different where its roots have grown strongly. This is not a disadvantage; it shows that the material works with the plant and adapts to its needs.
The NATURALpot sits with the plant in a planter and is exposed to regular watering and the soil of the plant. This means that some of the conditions for decomposition are already in place, but it still takes a while for the pot to completely decompose. You could also think of it as a sign to put the plant in a larger pot, which is best for the environment.
The plant behaves similarly in a PP pot. The roots grow through the holes in the bottom of the pot. When you repot the plant, it's almost guaranteed that the roots will get damaged, especially if it's in a PP pot. After three years, the plant would be stuck in a PP pot and would have to be carefully removed. It's a good idea to use a bio pot, which even shows people who don't have much green thumb that the plant needs more space.
And when its job is done? Nature takes over.
If the pot gets damaged at any point, or if the plant is repotted, there are two ways to dispose of it in a way that doesn't cause harm to the environment:
Soil decomposition – if the conditions are right (for example, in a garden compost or an industrial facility), the pot can completely decompose and turn into valuable humus. When repotting, just put the plant in a bigger pot.
Residual waste – no problem. This is because most of the waste in residual waste is recycled through heat. Green energy can be obtained from the bio-based material – this is a clear advantage over fossil-based plastics, which are not renewable.
Fossil fuels are being phased out; the future is bio-based and biodegradable.
Biodegradable plastics are a good alternative to materials made from oil, and they are just as good and useful. They combine:
Using raw materials that can be used again and again helps to protect the environment.
Sustainability through circular economy and CO₂ reduction
A wide range of applications, from plant pots to household products
Many people are still reluctant to use them because they think that compostable items are automatically unstable. This misunderstanding stops us from using the possibilities offered by these new materials. But more and more people will want to buy sustainable products in the next few years. This will mean more types of high-performance bioplastics.
You can trust the new generation of bioplastics.
Biodegradable plant pots and other products made from bioplastics are perfect for everyday use, long-lasting and eco-friendly. You can use them indoors or outdoors. And when they are no longer needed, they offer ways to dispose of them that are better for the environment than plastic made from fossil fuels.
It's time to rethink. Bioplastics are not just an option – they are the best choice.
