Researchers in China have developed a new type of glass they claim is both biodegradable and biorecyclable, meaning it can break down and be reused in nature—the latest eco-friendly alternative to glass or plastic to emerge, though researchers admit the development of the glass for commercial use remains a ways away.

Biodegradable refers to the ability of materials to break down and return to nature. In order for packaging products or materials to qualify as biodegradable, they must completely break down and decompose into natural elements within a short time after disposal – typically a year or less.

Biodegradable waste can be commonly found in municipal solid waste as green waste, food waste, paper waste and biodegradable plastics. Other biodegradable wastes include human waste, manure, sewage, and slaughterhouse waste.