If all the waste we generate is biodegradable, will this have no impact on the environment?
No, even if all the waste we generate is biodegradable, it will still have an impact on the environment. Biodegradable substances are those that are broken down by biological processes, which is better than non-biodegradable waste that persists in the environment for a long time.
However, improvements in our life-style have resulted in greater amounts of waste material generation. The disposal of the waste we generate is causing serious environmental problems. When large quantities of biodegradable waste accumulate, the natural decomposition processes may not be able to handle them efficiently.
Therefore, biodegradable waste does have an impact on the environment, though it may be less harmful than non-biodegradable waste. The key issue is the volume of waste being generated and how we manage its disposal.
Explanation
This question tests whether students understand that while biodegradable waste is environmentally better than non-biodegradable waste, it still has environmental consequences. The textbook context establishes that biodegradable substances are broken down by biological processes, but also emphasizes that improvements in lifestyle have led to greater waste generation and that waste disposal causes serious environmental problems. Students should recognize that the sheer quantity of waste generated—even if biodegradable—creates environmental challenges that cannot be ignored.