Kraft paper is a popular choice because of its excellent strength, durability, and ability to withstand pressure. However, some people are concerned about whether this popular paper product is biodegradable. Will it be broken down by microorganisms and bacteria when we dispose of it? 

Of course, kraft paper is 100% biodegradable. Kraft paper is made from pulp, which is made from long virgin softwood fibers, making it completely organic. Within a few weeks, kraft paper breaks down into cellulose fibers, just like leaves. 

You should know that to be considered a biodegradable product, waste must not pollute the surrounding environment after biodegradation. The biodegradation process must take place within a year. Kraft paper meets all of these requirements; it does not pollute the environment before, during, or after the biodegradation process, which does not exceed one year. 

However, to expedite the biodegradation process of kraft paper, certain factors must be present. These include a balance of heat, moisture, oxygen, sunlight, and microorganisms. If at least one of these factors is missing, kraft paper will take some time to fully biodegrade. 

As mentioned earlier, there are two types of kraft paper: natural or unbleached kraft paper and bleached kraft paper. Natural kraft paper is the most popular and is biodegradable. On the other hand, bleached kraft paper is not biodegradable because it undergoes a chemical process. 

You need to know that if natural kraft paper is contaminated, the biodegradation process will be greatly slowed down. Suppose the kraft paper comes into contact with oil, grease, and other inorganic products. In this case, it is difficult to biodegrade because the contaminants will repel the microorganisms and bacteria that would break it down. 

Kraft paper biodegrades faster in industrial facilities because all the basic factors and conditions can be controlled, which is different from letting them biodegrade naturally. The temperature in industrial facilities is usually around 60°C, whereas the temperature in our homes is usually around 35°C. Microorganisms multiply faster at high temperatures, so waste biodegrades faster.