what do biodegradable bags need to break down
Biodegradable bags need oxygen, moisture, and the presence of microorganisms (such as bacteria, fungi, or algae) to break down. The exact amount of time it takes for the bags to break down depends on various factors, including the type of material used to create the bag, the temperature, and the conditions in which the bag is disposed of. It can take anywhere from a few months to several years for biodegradable bags to fully decompose.
Biodegradable bags typically require three main factors to break down effectively:
1. Moisture: Biodegradable bags need moisture to break down. Without sufficient moisture, the decomposition process will be significantly slower or might not occur at all. Moisture enables microorganisms, such as bacteria and fungi, to break down the bag's components.
2. Temperature: Higher temperatures can accelerate the breakdown process. Warmer environments provide a more favorable condition for microorganisms to thrive and carry out decomposition effectively. However, it's important to note that biodegradable bags can break down at lower temperatures too, but the process will be slower.
3. Oxygen: Many biodegradable bags require oxygen for decomposition, a process known as aerobic degradation. Oxygen allows microbes to utilize organic materials present in the bag as a food source. However, some biodegradable bags are designed to break down in anaerobic environments, such as landfills, where oxygen is limited. These bags usually include additives that help facilitate the anaerobic degradation process.
It is worth mentioning that the time frame for biodegradable bags to break down can vary depending on various factors, such as the specific bag composition, thickness, environmental conditions, and the presence of microorganisms.