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What is biodegradable waste? Give 10 examples

GeneralClass 12AllAnswered 27 Mar 2026
Answer

Biodegradable waste consists of organic materials that can be broken down naturally by microorganisms (bacteria, fungi) into simpler, harmless substances. These materials decompose through biological processes and return to nature.

10 Examples of Biodegradable Waste:

  1. Vegetable and fruit peels - Decompose within 1-2 weeks
  2. Leftover cooked food - Breaks down in 5-7 days
  3. Tea leaves and coffee grounds - Decompose quickly, rich in nitrogen
  4. Dried leaves and grass - Take 2-4 weeks to decompose
  5. Paper and cardboard (non-laminated) - Break down in 2-6 weeks
  6. Cotton cloth - Natural fiber that decomposes in 1-5 months
  7. Wool and silk - Natural animal fibers, decompose in 1-5 years
  8. Eggshells - Take several weeks to break down completely
  9. Cow dung - Excellent for composting, decomposes rapidly
  10. Wooden items - Decompose slowly over several months to years

Key characteristic: All these items come from plant or animal sources and can be converted into compost, enriching the soil with nutrients.

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