Question

Differentiate between biodegradable and non-biodegradable substances with the help of one example each. List two changes in habit that people must adopt to dispose non-biodegradable waste, for saving the environment.

Answer 1

 Biodegradable Substance

It decomposes naturally in the environment by the action of microorganisms.  
It is environment friendly.  
It is made up of natural ingredients.  
It can be converted into manure or recycled.  
Examples: Waste papers, wood crumbles, etc.

Non-biodegradable Substance

It does not decompose naturally.
It is harmful to the environment and causes pollution.
It is made up of synthetic materials.
It can be either reused or recycled.
Examples: Plastic bags, cans, disposable bottles, etc


Following are the changes that people should bring in their habit to dispose non-biodegradable waste:
They must follow 3 R's of waste management (Reduce, reuse and recycle).
They must use separate dustbins for disposing non-biodegradable wastes and ensure that they are treated properly before they are dumped in landfills.
They must encourage the usage of biodegradable materials in place of non-biodegradable materials such as the use of paper bags, jute bags instead of plastic bags. 

Answer 2

Biodegradable wastes are those which can be biologically decomposed. Eg: paper.

Non-biodegradable wastes are those which cannot be biologically decomposed. Eg: plastic.

The two changes that people have to follow are:

1. We have to care for nature as we care for other valuables.

2. We have to follow the three R's i.e reuse, reduce and recycle