Biodegradable Products

Biodegradable refers to any organic matter in waste which can be broken down into carbon dioxide, water, methane or simple organic molecules by micro-organisms and other living things acting in composting, aerobic digestion, anaerobic digestion or similar processes. 

Many biodegradable products are reusable and can also be donated.  An internet search such as “donate (biodegradable cooler, pencils, etc.) York PA” will show organizations that accept these items for donation.

Most paper is naturally biodegradable, but only certain types of paper are recyclable in York County.  For more information about paper management, click here.

Biodegradable plastic is chemically different than traditional plastic and is not recyclable in York County.

Some biodegradable products are compostable, but may take a long time to break down or require a commercial composting system in order to compost them.  An internet search such as “compost biodegradable bags, cups, etc.” will show more information about composting these items.

Biodegradable products can be disposed in the regular trash.