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What is non-biodegradable waste? Give 10 examples

GeneralClass 12AllAnswered 27 Mar 2026
Answer

Non-biodegradable waste includes materials that cannot be broken down naturally by biological processes. These materials persist in the environment for hundreds or even thousands of years, causing long-term pollution.

10 Examples of Non-Biodegradable Waste:

  1. Plastic bags (polythene) - Can take 500-1000 years to decompose
  2. Plastic bottles - Persist for 450+ years in the environment
  3. Styrofoam/thermocol - Never fully decomposes, breaks into small particles
  4. Glass bottles and jars - Last indefinitely, take 1 million years to break down
  5. Aluminum cans - Take 200-500 years to decompose
  6. Metal objects (steel, iron) - Rust slowly over decades but don't biodegrade
  7. Batteries - Contain toxic chemicals, never biodegrade
  8. Electronic waste (old phones, computers) - Contains harmful materials
  9. Synthetic rubber (tires, shoes) - Take 50-80 years to decompose
  10. Plastic toys - Last for centuries without breaking down

Important note: These materials aren't derived from plant or animal sources. They require special disposal methods like recycling, incineration, or landfill burial.

General · Class 12