# Biodegradable/compostable vs. Recyclable

**URL:** <https://boards.straightdope.com/t/biodegradable-compostable-vs-recyclable/834506>\
**Category:** Factual Questions\
**Created:** [May 25, 2019, 4:04pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/biodegradable-compostable-vs-recyclable/834506 "2019-05-25T16:04:07Z")\
**Posts on this page:** 1\
**Page:** 1

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**Author:** ![Tinker\_Grey](https://sea3.discourse-cdn.com/straightdope/user_avatar/boards.straightdope.com/tinker_grey/32/8136_2.png) [@Tinker\_Grey](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/Tinker_Grey)\
**Post date:** [May 25, 2019, 4:04pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/biodegradable-compostable-vs-recyclable/834506/1 "2019-05-25T16:04:07Z")

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My spouse recently bought some k-cups that are 100% recyclable. We had been buying k-cups that are 95% biodegradable (except for the foil covering) – there is a biodegradable hard-plastic ring and the rest is a fine mesh. The bag that 12 come in is compostable.

The 100% recyclable ones look like a standard k-cup.

So taking into account manufacturing, initial material costs, reclaiming material, etc., which would you imagine is more environmentally friendly?

I’d be interested in generalities as well.