Understanding Eco-Friendly Packaging: Compostable, Biodegradable, and Degradable

Are you a business owner trying to make sustainable choices for your products? The world of eco-friendly packaging can be confusing, with terms like compostable, biodegradable, and degradable floating around. Let's break it down to help you make informed choices for your business.

COMPOSTABLE

According to the Australasian Bioplastic Association (ABA), compostable products or materials convert into water, carbon dioxide, and a small amount of carbon humus. They do not include toxic additives and won't harm the soil. There are two distinctions within compostable products:

Commercially Compostable: These products will biodegrade in commercial composting conditions within six months. If you have access to commercial composting facilities, they are a great choice.

Home Compostable: These products biodegrade in six months when placed in well-set-up home composting conditions. They are suitable for green waste, vegetable scraps, and more, but not meat or dairy.

Look for certifications like AS 4736-2006 for commercial composting and AS 5810-2010 for home composting.

Keep in mind that if a product isn't home compostable, it might end up in a landfill where it can take a long time to decompose, emitting methane, a potent greenhouse gas.

BIODEGRADABLE

Biodegradable products undergo a natural process where microorganisms convert them into water, carbon dioxide, and biomass. However, the process depends on specific environmental conditions and the material itself. These products should not be disposed of in composting facilities or home compost bins, as they require unique conditions to break down.

Unfortunately, some biodegradable products still contain plastic components, which can be hazardous when they break down into smaller plastic pieces. Ensure you choose products that are 100% biodegradable and break down relatively quickly.

DEGRADABLE

Degradable products break down over time when exposed to specific conditions like heat and sunlight. Unlike biodegradable products, they don't rely on microorganisms but often include chemicals, including heavy metals, to speed up decomposition.

Similar to biodegradable bags, degradable bags break down into smaller plastic pieces and pose environmental challenges. They are not compostable or biodegradable and should be disposed of in regular waste bins.

Be clear, be confident and don’t overthink it. The beauty of your story is that it’s going to continue to evolve and your site can evolve with it. Your goal should be to make it feel right for right now. Later will take care of itself. It always does.

BONUS INFO

Be cautious with terms like "bio" or "plant-based." While they indicate materials derived from plants, they may not necessarily be biodegradable or compostable. "Bioplastic" can have various meanings, so check for specific certifications.

SOLUTIONS FOR BUSINESSES

To make eco-friendly choices, consider improving recycling and composting infrastructure. Additionally, reduce single-use items to minimize your environmental impact. Advocate for government support in funding onshore recycling facilities and consider supporting initiatives for a ban on single-use plastics.

You are welcome to share this blog with proper attribution. It provides clarity on eco-friendly packaging terms for businesses and offers solutions for making sustainable choices.