It might seem that once a soap dissolves, it poses no threat to the environment. However, regular soaps actually contain chemicals that can be harmful once they seep into the ground.
This is where the distinction between biodegradable soap and regular soap becomes evident. The difference between biodegradable and regular soaps lies in their composition and subsequent effects on the environment.
What are biodegradeable soaps?
Biodegradable soaps have gained attention for their eco-friendly properties, offering a stark contrast to conventional soaps in terms of environmental impact.
A soap can be classified as biodegradable only if they decompose to 90% water, carbon dioxide, and biomass within a six-month timeframe. However, certain materials might require years to undergo complete biodegradation.
Biodegradable soaps, as noted by WebMD, contain fewer chemical additives and synthetic components. This key distinction enables biodegradable soaps to decompose rapidly and disintegrate naturally without causing harm to the environment.
Differences between biodegradeable and regular soaps
The swift decomposition of biodegradable soaps contributes to the restoration and preservation of ecosystems. As these soaps break down into harmless byproducts, they support the natural balance of the environment without leaving behind persistent pollutants.
Meanwhile, regular soaps often contain a plethora of synthetic chemicals and additives, which can persist in the environment long after use. These chemicals, derived from petrochemicals, pose a threat to aquatic life and ecosystems when they accumulate in water bodies.
Biodegradable soaps utilize surfactants sourced from natural origins, such as vegetable and animal fats. These naturally-derived surfactants not only effectively cleanse but also degrade harmlessly over time, minimizing their ecological footprint.
Regular soaps, on the other hand, typically include synthetic surfactants. These surfactants play a crucial role in reducing water surface tension and generating foam.
However, according to a 2018 study published in Marine Pollution, surfactants pose risks to both fish and humans, contributing to foam formation in rivers and wastewater treatment facilities, thus diminishing water quality. Additionally, they inflict short- and long-term harm on the environment.
Moreover, the presence of phosphates, antibacterial and antifungal agents, fragrances, and preservatives in regular soaps has the potential to harm naturally occurring bacteria and algae, thereby disrupting the ecosystem, as per WebMD.
In essence, the disparity between biodegradable and regular soaps lies in their ecological implications. While regular soaps laden with synthetic chemicals pose a threat to environmental health, biodegradable soaps offer a greener alternative by virtue of their natural composition and rapid decomposition.
More and more people are embracing environmentally friendly choices. By making informed decisions and opting for eco-friendly products like biodegradable soaps instead of conventional ones, anyone can contribute to positive change towards a more sustainable future.
This transition not only helps reduce people's environmental impact but also protects ecosystems and human well-being. Recognizing the significant influence of consumer choices in promoting environmental health, it's important to prioritize products that support environmental stewardship.
