Biodegrade: meaning, definitions and examples
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biodegrade
[ ˌbaɪoʊdɪˈɡreɪd ]
environmental science
Biodegrade refers to the process by which organic substances are broken down by the natural action of living organisms, typically microorganisms. This process transforms materials into simpler compounds, effectively reducing waste and pollution in the environment. It is an essential mechanism in nature for the recycling of nutrients and elimination of harmful substances.
Synonyms
break down, decay, decompose, dissolve
Examples of usage
- Plastic does not biodegrade quickly in a landfill.
- Composting allows organic waste to biodegrade efficiently.
- Certain materials are designed to biodegrade within months.
- Biodegradable packaging is better for the environment.
- Microorganisms can help biodegrade oil spills.
Translations
Translations of the word "biodegrade" in other languages:
🇵🇹 biodegradar
🇮🇳 जैव विघटन करना
🇩🇪 biologisch abbaubar
🇮🇩 biodegradasi
🇺🇦 біологічно розкладатися
🇵🇱 biodegradować
🇯🇵 生分解する
🇫🇷 biodégradable
🇪🇸 biodegradar
🇹🇷 biyolojik olarak parçalanabilir
🇰🇷 생분해되다
🇸🇦 قابل للتحلل البيولوجي
🇨🇿 biodegradovat
🇸🇰 biologicky rozložiteľný
🇨🇳 生物降解
🇸🇮 biodgradirati
🇮🇸 bjóður að brjóta niður
🇰🇿 биологиялық ыдырау
🇬🇪 ბიოლოგიურად დაშლის
🇦🇿 bioloji parçalana bilən
🇲🇽 biodegradar
Etymology
The term 'biodegrade' combines the prefix 'bio-', meaning life or living organisms, with the word 'degrade', which originates from the Latin 'degradare', meaning to lower or bring down. The concept of biodegradation was first articulated in the late 20th century as environmental concerns around waste management intensified. Scientists recognized the need for sustainable waste disposal methods to minimize ecological footprints. Over the years, the emphasis on biodegradable materials has grown, particularly with increased awareness of pollution and climate change. The evolution of the term reflects society's shifting attitudes towards waste, sustainability, and the essential role of microorganisms in our ecosystems.