Biodegradable polymer

Biodegradable polymers are polymers that can be decomposed by the action of living organisms. Whereas most polymers are designed for longevity, biodegradable polymers are not. Biodegradable polymers can be derived from renewable raw materials, petrochemicals, or combinations thereof.

Polymers are the majority component of most plastics, so the topics of biodegradable plastics and biodegradable polymers are intimately related. While the words "bioplastic" and "biodegradable polymer" are similar, they are not synonymous.

• Bioplastics are composed of biologically synthesized polymers, i.e., derived partly or entirely from biomass. Some are biodegradable. Definitions are debated.
• Biodegradable plastics are composed of polymers that can be petroleum-based, biologically derived, or a mixture thereof.