Biodegradation

Biodegradation is nature's way of cleaning up. Bacteria, fungi, and other tiny organisms break down dead plants, animals, and other materials. They turn waste into simpler substances like water, carbon dioxide, and nutrients. This process keeps the Earth from being buried in dead stuff.

How It Works

Microorganisms like bacteria and fungi eat dead organic material. They produce enzymes that break down complex substances into simpler ones. A fallen leaf on the forest floor is broken down by millions of tiny organisms. Over time, the leaf becomes part of the soil. This adds nutrients that help new plants grow.

What Does and Does Not Biodegrade

Natural materials like food scraps, paper, and wood biodegrade fairly quickly. A banana peel takes about two years to decompose. But plastic, glass, and metal do not biodegrade easily. A plastic bottle can last 450 years or more. That is why recycling and reducing plastic use are so important.

Fun Facts

• An apple core takes about two months to biodegrade.
• Some scientists are developing bacteria that can break down certain types of plastic.
• In a compost pile, temperatures can reach 150 degrees Fahrenheit from the heat produced by decomposing microbes.

Did You Know?

Scientists discovered a type of fungus in the Amazon Rainforest that can break down polyurethane plastic. This discovery could someday help us deal with plastic pollution!