A common misconception is that biodegradable soaps are the best things to use when outdoor camping or backpacking. Although better than other soaps, if used near water sources they require soil to break them down properly. According to the website http://www.backcountryattitude.com/biod … soap.html,
"Materials are usually deemed biodegradable if they break down to at least 90% h2O, CO2 and biomass within 6 months." People assume that because of this, biodegradable is 100 percent good for our environment, however, biodegradable is not in fact environmentally friendly. Unfortunately, for those of us who are not willing to sacrifice our personal hygiene for the sake of the environment, until we figure out a form of soap-like substance that is environmentally friendly, biodegradable is our best option.