EDTA is not biodegradable but "EDTA is in such widespread use that it has emerged as a persistent organic pollutant. Its degradation entails conversion to ethylenediaminetriacetic acid, which then cyclizes" quoted from Wikipedia. So it is so prevalent that they have devised means to cope with it that are not draconian.
I agree with your comment, but due to our ability to cope with it in effluent and its low toxicity, I have to minimize its problems when compared to many other choices. It has so many medicinal uses that it can hardly be shut out of use totally.
PE