Which of the following best describes compostable materials?

The best description of compostable materials is that they are organic materials that decompose into compost. Compostable materials typically include food scraps, yard waste, paper products, and certain bioplastics that break down naturally through the processes of microbial action, moisture, and temperature. When these materials decompose under controlled conditions, they transform into a nutrient-rich organic material known as compost, which can be used to enrich soil and support plant growth.

This understanding of compostable materials emphasizes their role in sustainable waste management by reducing landfill waste and returning valuable nutrients to the earth. Identifying compostable materials is essential for proper waste sorting and promoting environmentally friendly practices.