biodegrade
/bʌɪəʊdɪˈɡreɪd
/verb [no object]
(Of a substance or object) be decomposed by bacteria or other living organisms: most plastics will not biodegrade in landfill sites...
- The coating biodegrades rapidly, because it is made from environmentally friendly materials.
- In our climate, organic waste biodegrades rapidly, which widens our options for dealing with it.
- I am far less plastic and will therefore biodegrade easier when I die.
Derivatives
biodegradation
/ noun ...- The process of biodegradation is constant and relentless - the sun, the wind, the rain, the temperature, human and animal activity - all play a part in its process.
- Dr. Ryan, who took up his post at the college in February, is delving into environmental matters and in particular, the use of bacteria in the biodegradation of toxic pollutants and waste.
- In Churchill, disposal of waste and refuse has been a problem because of poorly planned landfills and inclement temperatures, which slow down the rate of biodegradation.