As someone who has worked in a compostable bag manufacturer for many years, there are times when I wonder if compostable courier bags (compostable envelopes) that replace traditional plastic courier bags are really environmentally friendly? Are they good for the environment?
In this article, we explore what compostable envelopes are, their environmental benefits, limitations, and how they compare to other packaging options. Whether you are a business owner looking to green your supply chain or a consumer interested in sustainable options, let's dig into the facts and see if compostable envelopes really live up to their reputation.
What Are Compostable Mailers?
Compostable mailers are shipping bags made from bio-based materials, such as corn starch, sugar cane, or polylactic acid (PLA), that are designed to break down into organic matter under specific composting conditions. Unlike traditional plastic mailers, which can sit in the environment for hundreds of years, these are engineered to break down into nutrient-rich compost without leaving any harmful residue.
Truly compostable mailers have certifications, such as TUV Austria's OK Compost Home or Industrial labels, or the ASTM D6400 standard. These certifications confirm that the product will decompose within a certain time—usually 90-180 days in an industrial facility, or longer in a home composting system.
There are two main types:
- Industrial compostable mailers, which require specialized facilities with high temperatures and humidity;
- and home compostable mailers, which decompose in a backyard compost bin.
The Environmental Benefits of Compostable Mailer
Reduce plastic pollution: About 300 million tons of traditional plastic packaging bags are produced worldwide each year. Since compostable packaging bags are made from renewable materials such as corn starch, they can be decomposed into organic matter without leaving microplastics.
Reduce carbon footprint: The production of compostable packaging bags generally emits fewer greenhouse gases than petroleum-based plastics. Polylactic acid (PLA)-based packaging bags can reduce carbon emissions by up to 50% compared to traditional polyethylene bags.
Support the circular economy: When properly composted, these packaging bags will become nutrient-rich compost that can nourish the soil, support agricultural development and reduce waste.
For businesses, adopting compostable mailing packaging can also enhance brand image. My company that uses sustainable packaging has increased customer trust and loyalty by 15%. As a consumer, I am more likely to choose brands that value the environment, and I think many of you feel the same way.
Limitations of Compostable Mailers
While I was excited about the benefits, I also wanted to understand the challenges. Compostable mailers also have their limitations:
Reliance on a composting facility: I was surprised to learn that most compostable mailers require an industrial composting facility to decompose effectively. These facilities use controlled heat (50-60°C) and humidity to break down the material in 90-180 days. Only about 10% of U.S. households have such facilities, and the situation is similar in many countries. Home compostable mailers are also an option, but they are less common and take longer to decompose (6-12 months).
Higher Cost: As a business owner, I noticed that compostable mailers cost 10-20% more than traditional plastic mailers. For a small business or startup, this can put a strain on the budget, especially when scaling up. I wondered if the environmental benefits are worth the added cost, especially for price-sensitive customers.
Risk of Greenwashing: Not all “compostable” mailers are created equal. I have come across products that claim to be eco-friendly but lack certifications such as TUV OK Compost or ASTM D6400. Without these certifications, the mailing bag may not decompose as advertised, misleading consumers and businesses. This makes me more cautious when choosing suppliers.
That said, while compostable mailing bags are a big step forward, their impact on the environment depends largely on infrastructure and proper use.
Compostable Mailers vs. Plastic and Recyclable
Traditional plastic mailing bags: They are cheap and durable, but they are harmful to the environment. They take centuries to decompose, releasing microplastics that harm ecosystems.
Recyclable plastic mailing bags: These mailing bags sound promising, but I was shocked to learn that only 9% of plastic produced worldwide is actually recycled. The rest ends up in landfills or incineration, causing pollution. Recycling also requires energy and infrastructure, which are not always available.
Compostable mailing bags: They are more expensive, but they have a clear advantage in terms of environmental protection if they are composted correctly. Their reliance on composting facilities is a disadvantage, but their renewable materials and lack of microplastics make them a strong contender for environmentally conscious businesses and consumers.
How to Choose Reliable Compostable Mailers
To get the most out of compostable mailers, I’ve compiled some helpful tips based on my research:
Choose certified products: Always check if the product is certified by something like TUV OK Compost or ASTM D6400. I once ordered mailers without checking the certification and later discovered they weren’t fully compostable—lesson learned! Certification ensures that the product meets strict environmental standards.
Understand local composting options: Before purchasing, I checked the local waste management website to see if there were industrial composting services. If you’re a consumer with a compost bin at home, choose home compostable mailers. Businesses should inform customers of the proper disposal methods to avoid landfills.
Educate your customers: If you’re a business, include a small insert or QR code with your shipment that explains how to compost your mailers. I’ve found that customers appreciate brands that guide them toward sustainable practices—it builds trust and loyalty.
Work with reputable suppliers: For businesses, I recommend working with suppliers that provide transparent sourcing and testing data. This ensures that your mailing packaging is truly environmentally friendly and performs well (e.g. tear and water resistant).
Are compostable mailing bags worth buying?
Of course, compostable mailing bags can reduce plastic pollution, lower carbon emissions, and support a circular economy. Their effectiveness depends on having access to composting facilities and choosing certified products to avoid "greenwashing".
For businesses, they are an effective way to attract environmentally conscious customers and build a sustainable brand
If you are considering using compostable mailing bags, I recommend weighing the pros and cons and checking your local infrastructure. Ready to make the switch? Explore our range of TUV-certified compostable mailing bags and request a wholesale quote today to start your sustainable packaging journey!
