Revolutionizing material with microbial innovation

Compostability refers to a material’s ability to break down into natural elements like water, carbon dioxide, and biomass in a composting environment, leaving no toxic residue behind and creating nutrient-rich compost. Unlike biodegradable materials, which simply degrade over time (sometimes leaving harmful residues), compostable materials break down in a defined timeframe and in a way that benefits the environment. In short, while all compostable materials are biodegradable, not all biodegradable materials are compostable.

In the United States, an estimated 30–40% of the food supply is wasted, amounting to approximately 133 billion pounds and $161 billion worth of food annually. This waste not only represents a significant economic loss but also contributes to environmental issues. Food waste is the single most common material landfilled and incinerated in the U.S, comprising 24% and 22% of landfilled and combusted municipal solid waste, respectively. When food decomposes in landfills, it generates methane, a potent greenhouse gas that exacerbates climate change. By reducing food waste through mindful consumption and composting, we can conserve resources, save money, and mitigate environmental impacts.

Renewable energy comes from natural sources that are replenished faster than they are consumed, offering a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels. The main types include solar energy, which captures sunlight through photovoltaic cells or solar thermal systems; wind energy, which uses turbines to convert wind into electricity; hydropower, which harnesses the flow of water to generate power; geothermal energy, which taps into the Earth's internal heat; and biomass energy, which derives power from organic materials like wood, agricultural waste, or other biological sources. Together, these technologies play a critical role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and supporting global efforts to mitigate climate change.