What is Biodegradeable Plastic? July 20, 2016 Biodegradable Plastic is a variation of plastic that has been treated so it will break down at a faster rate than its conventional counterpart. This means that once dumped in a landfill, the disposed item that is made from biodegradable plastic will decompose, leaving more space, allowing the landfill to be used for a longer period. While it is useful, biodegradable plastic is not without some controversy. Though it is biodegradable as the name suggests, biodegradable plastics are…

What is Biodiesel? July 12, 2016 Biodiesel is an alternative energy source for diesel engines. Commonly made from grease, vegetable oils, or fats, this fuel source can be used on its own (referred to as B100) or in combination with conventional petroleum diesel in 5 percent and 20 percent. According to the EPA, biodiesel can reduce greenhouse gases by between 57 and 86 percent and is considered safer to handle due to its lower toxicity. Biodiesel is produced through what is called transesterification. Here, the…

What is Biodegredation? July 20, 2016 Biodegradation, is the process where the carbon-based material goes through a change from complex modules into simpler ones before returning to the environment. In most cases, this process is completed with the help of living organisms such as bacteria, fungi, and worms. These organisms take on the role of breaking down the matter into new matter. The process of biodegradation is used in the creation of compost. When composting, organic materials break down into a nutrient-rich soil with the…

What is Biodiversity? July 13, 2016 Everything in the world is interconnected with one another in a complicated relationship known as biodiversity. In this web, wide varieties of animal and plant species rely on each other for food and shelter, especially humans. Diversity is important as it ensures greater variety of crops, natural sustainability of all life forms, and allows for ecosystems to survive and recover from environmental issues. An example of the importance of biodiversity is in the case of the honeybee. Bees are…

What is Bioenergy? July 14, 2016 Bioenergy is energy that derives from biomass – organics that have absorbed solar energy such as wood, straw, or other biological refuse. This is considered renewable because the plant matter can be replanted. Biofuels like ethanol and biodiesel also fall under this category. Bioenergy can also be harnessed from biodegradable waste that is not typically reusable like residual fats, food waste, and municipal wastewater solids through anaerobic digestion for the production of biogas. The advantage of using biofuels is…