Biodegradability Series: Understanding Biodegradability – Breaking Down the Facts

Biodegradability is more than just a buzzword—it’s a key factor in reducing environmental impact and ensuring a sustainable future. In this episode of Assurance in Action, Dhanashree Bhelose, Senior Business Development Manager, Environmental Services at Intertek, joins the conversation to break down what biodegradability really means, its role in sustainability, and common misconceptions—like the difference between biodegradable and compostable materials. We also explore how businesses can integrate biodegradable materials responsibly without falling into the trap of greenwashing.

From certification and testing to overcoming challenges in implementation, this episode provides valuable insights for businesses looking to make informed, science-backed sustainability decisions. Listen now to discover how biodegradability fits into the bigger picture of sustainable production and waste reduction. 

🔗 Tune in now!

Follow us on- Intertek's Assurance In Action || Twitter || LinkedIn.

Transcript

Refaya Priya – Intertek (0:12)
Welcome to Assurance in Action, the podcast where we explore the latest trends and insights in sustainability, quality, and assurance. I'm Refaya Priya, the Global Social Media Marketing Manager for Business Assurance, Caleb Brett, and Food Services here at Intertek.

Today, we are kicking off an exciting new series on biodegradability, a topic that is shaping the future of sustainable materials and responsible production. In this series, we'll dive into key concepts, industry challenges, and the innovative solutions driving biodegradability forward.

Joining me today to set the stage for this important discussion is our Senior Business Development Manager from Environmental Services, Dhanashree Bhelose.

Welcome, Dhanashree! Thank you so much for joining us today. How are you doing?

Dhanashree Bhelose – Intertek (1:00)
Hi, hi, Refaya! All is well on my side. I'm very excited to be a part of this discussion.

Refaya Priya – Intertek (1:08)
That's great! So before we get into the details, let's start with the basics. Could you help us define what biodegradability really means and why it is such a crucial topic in today’s sustainability landscape?

Dhanashree Bhelose – Intertek (1:21)
Yeah, so biodegradability plays a key role in sustainability by ensuring that materials break down naturally without leaving harmful residues. In fact, it helps in creating truly eco-friendly products that minimize long-term environmental harm.

Refaya Priya – Intertek (1:40)
That's a great overview, Dhanashree. Thank you so much! It’s clear that biodegradability is more than just a buzzword—it's a critical factor in reducing environmental impact.

So for my next question, from your perspective in Environmental Services, how do businesses approach biodegradability today, and what are some common misconceptions around it?

Dhanashree Bhelose – Intertek (2:06)
Yeah, from my perspective in Environmental Services, businesses today are increasingly prioritizing biodegradability testing for their products. However, their approach varies depending on industry regulations and market demand.

Many companies see it as a key sustainability metric, integrating biodegradable materials into their products and packaging to enhance their eco-friendly image. However, the approach isn’t always comprehensive. Some focus on biodegradability as a selling point rather than ensuring real environmental benefits, which can lead to false claims.

There are also some common misconceptions around biodegradability:

1. Everything biodegradable is environmentally friendly. No, not always. Some biodegradable materials leave residues and do not fully degrade in the environment.
2. Biodegradability happens quickly in any environment. No, different products have different compositions, raw materials, and breakdown rates. The biodegradation process depends on factors like temperature, moisture, and microbial activity.
3. Compostability is the same as biodegradability. No, compostability requires specific conditions for degradation, whereas biodegradable materials do not always meet composting requirements.
4. All plastics can be biodegradable. No, while bioplastics exist, not all traditional plastics can biodegrade without altering their structure or performance.

This is an important point because claims based on partial information can mislead consumers. Increasing technical knowledge on biodegradation will help both businesses and customers make informed decisions about appropriate testing methods and product conditions.

Refaya Priya – Intertek (4:36)
That’s really insightful. Thank you so much, Dhanashree!

Before we wrap up today's introduction, do you have any final thoughts on why biodegradability should be a priority for both businesses and consumers?

Dhanashree Bhelose – Intertek (4:50)
Yes, absolutely! Biodegradability is a powerful sustainability tool, but its real-world impact depends on rigorous standards, proper testing, and thoughtful implementation.

There are key challenges in biodegradability, such as standardization and certification issues, as well as differences between laboratory testing and real-world conditions. Additionally, balancing material performance with sustainability is crucial—some biodegradable alternatives may compromise durability or shelf life.

Biodegradability should be a priority for both businesses and consumers because it directly impacts environmental sustainability, waste reduction, and long-term ecological balance. Transparent, science-backed claims enhance credibility and build strong customer trust. Many industries are now moving toward a circular economy model, where biodegradable materials help close the loop on waste.

Refaya Priya – Intertek (6:04)
Thank you so much, Dhanashree. This was a great start to our biodegradability series!

Would you like to give our listeners an overview of the upcoming episodes so they know what to expect?

Dhanashree Bhelose – Intertek (6:20)
Yes! Sustainability requires a holistic approach. Biodegradability should go hand in hand with responsible sourcing, efficient waste management, and material innovation. Encouraging better waste practices, raising awareness, and implementing proper biodegradable waste management plans are all crucial steps we must take together.

Refaya Priya – Intertek (6:51)
Thank you so much! I really enjoyed today's episode, and I’m sure our listeners will find it helpful as well.

To our listeners, if you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to us at business.assurance@intertek.com.

Again, thank you so much, Dhanashree, for joining us today. And to our listeners, stay tuned for more upcoming episodes on biodegradability.

Thanks for listening, and until next time, let’s keep driving sustainability forward.

Dhanashree Bhelose – Intertek (7:20)
Thank you!