Written by: Linda Zhang

As consumers become more eco-conscious, terms like "compostable" are increasingly common on packaging. This label implies that the material will eventually break down and return harmlessly to nature. However, not all compostable packaging lives up to this promise. Here's why:

1. Industrial vs. Home Composting

• Industrial Composting: Most compostable packaging is designed to decompose in industrial composting facilities, which maintain high temperatures (above 55°C or 131°F), controlled humidity, and proper aeration to accelerate the breakdown process. Many certified compostable plastics, such as PLA (polylactic acid), require these conditions to fully degrade.

  
  

• Home Composting: Home composting systems typically lack the necessary heat and controlled conditions for the effective decomposition of these materials. For instance, a compostable bag that disintegrates within 90 days in an industrial facility may take years to break down in a backyard compost pile, if it breaks down at all.

2. Lack of Composting Facilities

The effectiveness of compostable packaging largely depends on the availability of industrial composting facilities. In many regions, these facilities are scarce. Even in areas where they do exist, not all accept compostable packaging due to contamination concerns or facility limitations. According to a 2023 report by GreenBlue, an environmental nonprofit dedicated to sustainable material use, only 19% of the largest cities in the United States (representing 11% of the total population) have access to composting programs that accept some form of compostable packaging.

3. Compostable ≠ Recyclable

Many consumers confuse compostable with recyclable. When compostable packaging is mixed with recyclables, it can contaminate and disrupt the recycling stream, rendering otherwise recyclable materials unusable.

4. Compostable ≠ Litter-Friendly

It's crucial to note that compostable packaging isn't synonymous with being litter-friendly. Many compostable materials still require specific conditions—such as temperature, microorganisms, and moisture—to decompose properly. If compostable packaging ends up as litter in oceans or landfills, it may not degrade any faster than conventional plastics.

How to Handle Common Compostable Materials:

• Polylactic Acid (PLA):

  • Source: Derived from renewable resources like corn starch, sugarcane, cassava, and sugar beet pulp

  • Uses: Often used in food packaging, such as cups, lids, and containers

  • Composting: Suitable for industrial composting facilities

    
    

• Bagasse:

  • Source: A byproduct of sugarcane processing

  • Uses: Commonly used for disposable plates, bowls, and takeout containers

  • Composting: Suitable for both home and industrial composting

    
    

• Molded Fiber:

  • Source: Made from recycled paper or natural fibers

  • Uses: Used for packaging trays, egg cartons, and protective packaging

  • Composting: Suitable for both home and industrial composting

    
    

• Palm Leaf:

  • Source: Made from fallen palm leaves

  • Uses: Used for eco-friendly plates, bowls, and trays

  • Composting: Biodegradable and compostable in both home and industrial settings

    
    

• Cellulose Film:

  • Source: Made from wood pulp

  • Uses: Used for clear wrapping, bags, and food packaging

  • Composting: Suitable for both home and industrial composting

    
    

• Starch-Based Materials:

  • Source: Derived from plant starch, often from corn, potato, or tapioca

  • Uses: Used for loose-fill packaging (packing peanuts) and various food packaging

  • Composting: Suitable for both home and industrial composting

    
    

• Hemp and Jute:

  • Source: Made from natural plant fibers

  • Uses: Used for bags, wraps, and padding

  • Composting: Suitable for home composting

    
    

• Mycelium:

  • Source: Made from the root structure of mushrooms

  • Uses: Used as a protective packaging alternative to Styrofoam

  • Composting: Suitable for both home and industrial composting

    
    

Contact us to learn more about sustainable packaging materials for your business.