Biodegradable polymers are decomposed by microorganisms like bacteria. While decomposing, they produce natural by-products like gases, water and inorganic salts. Wood is a natural biodegradable polymer.
Are natural polymers the only biodegradable ones? Not really. Some synthetic polymers are also biodegradable and they do not have any adverse effect on the environment. Remember vitamin E capsules? The shell of the capsule is made of a biodegradable polymer. Surgical bands and sutures also make use of biodegradable polymers. Polylactic acid used for packaging is yet another example.
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