Journal of Environmental Waste Management and Recycling

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Opinion Article - Journal of Environmental Waste Management and Recycling (2023) Volume 6, Issue 3

Role of biodegradation in a circular economy.

Mohd Aslam*

Department of environmental engineering, University of Technology Sydney, Broadway, Australia

Corresponding Author:
Mohammad Aslam
Department of environmental engineering
University of Technology Sydney
Broadway, Australia
E-mail: mohammadsaidul.aslam@uts.edu.au

Received: 23-Apr-2023, Manuscript No. AAEWMR-23-97786; Editor assigned: 24-Apr-2023, PreQC No. AAEWMR-23-97786(PQ); Reviewed: 08-May-2023, QC No.AAEWMR-23-97786; Revised: 12-May-2023, Manuscript No. AAEWMR-23-97786(R); Published: 19-May-2023, DOI:10.35841/AAEWMR-6.3.147

Citation: Aslam M. Role of biodegradation in a circular economy. Environ Waste Management Recycling. 2023;6(3):147

A circular economy is an economic system that is designed to be restorative and regenerative by design. It aims to keep resources in use for as long as possible and to minimize waste by repurposing and recycling materials. Biodegradation plays an important role in achieving a circular economy by facilitating the natural breakdown of materials into reusable resources. Biodegradation is the process by which organic materials are broken down by microorganisms, such as bacteria or fungi, into simpler substances that can be used as nutrients by other living organisms. This process is a crucial part of the natural carbon cycle and is essential for maintaining a healthy environment [1].

In a circular economy, biodegradation is used as a means to keep materials in use for as long as possible. By breaking down organic materials into reusable resources, biodegradation allows us to cycle nutrients and materials back into the economy. For example, food waste can be composted to produce nutrient-rich soil that can be used to grow crops, or biodegradable plastics can be broken down into raw materials to make new products. Biodegradation also plays an important role in reducing waste and preventing pollution. Organic materials, such as food waste and yard waste, are often the largest component of municipal solid waste and contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions in landfills. By composting these materials instead, we can reduce the amount of waste that goes into landfills and decrease the associated environmental harm [2].

However, it is important to note that not all biodegradable materials are created equal. Some materials, such as bioplastics, may only break down under specific conditions and may still contribute to environmental harm if not managed properly. Additionally, the production of biodegradable materials may require significant resources and energy, which can also have environmental impacts. To fully realize the potential of biodegradation in a circular economy, it is important to focus on the development of sustainable and efficient production methods, as well as effective waste management systems. This can involve educating consumers on proper waste disposal practices, investing in composting and recycling infrastructure, and developing new technologies to efficiently process biodegradable materials [3].

Biodegradation plays a crucial role in achieving a circular economy by facilitating the natural breakdown of materials into reusable resources. By incorporating biodegradable materials into everyday products and improving waste management practices, we can reduce our reliance on nonrenewable resources, decrease environmental harm, and support a more sustainable economy. One of the major benefits of biodegradation in a circular economy is its ability to reduce the amount of waste that goes into landfills. Biodegradable materials, such as food waste and yard waste, can be composted to produce nutrient-rich soil that can be used to grow crops [4].

Another benefit of biodegradation in a circular economy is its ability to reduce our dependence on non-renewable resources. Many biodegradable materials are made from renewable resources, such as plant-based materials like cornstarch or sugarcane. This reduces our dependence on non-renewable resources, such as petroleum-based plastics, and supports a more sustainable economy. By diverting these materials from landfills, we can reduce the environmental impact of waste disposal and turn waste into a valuable resource [5].

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