The pollution of plastic to the environment is self-evident. As people's environmental awareness increases, compostable materials (food scraps, plant-based plastics, and certain paper products) have become new alternatives. What are compostable materials? What are the benefits to us? Is it environmentally friendly?
In this article, we will talk about what compostable materials are, the benefits and challenges, how they compare to other materials, and practical tips on how to use them. Let's take a deep dive into how these materials can help us live more sustainably.
What Are Compostable Materials
Compostable materials need to be decomposed into water, carbon dioxide and nutrient-rich composting materials by microorganisms in a composting environment. These materials are then returned to nature for recycling.
Compostable items must meet strict standards - either the Biodegradable Products Institute (BPI) or European standards (EN 13432).
Composting can be done in industrial facilities at specific temperatures and humidity, and some can also be done at home, but not all compostable items are suitable for home composting.
Importance of Compostable Materials
- Promote healthier soil and ecosystems.
- Reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
- Protect natural resources.
Many entrepreneurs are joining in to innovate from compostable coffee pods to biodegradable packaging to meet consumer demand for sustainability. As individuals, we support brands that prioritize compostable materials and advocate for better industrial waste management systems to expand this impact.
Certifications for Compostable Materials
US BPI Certified mark: It complies with ASTM D6400 standards and can be degraded. It can be completely decomposed in industrial composting facilities without producing harmful substances.
European EN13432 certification: ensures that the product can be decomposed during industrial composting and is safe for the environment.
EU TÜV OK Compost Industrial certification: mainly for polylactic acid (PLA) bioplastics, confirming that it is suitable for industrial composting.
Australian AS4736 certification: for biodegradable plastics, ensuring that they are properly handled in Australia's industrial composting system.
Compostable vs. Biodegradable: What’s the Difference?
The terms “compostable,” “biodegradable,” and “recyclable” are often used interchangeably, but they have distinct meanings. Let’s break it down:
| Feature | Compostable | Biodegradable |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Breaks down into nutrient-rich compost | Breaks down naturally over time |
| Process | Microbial decomposition in compost | Natural decomposition, may leave residues |
| Timeframe | Weeks to months | Varies, sometimes years |
| Environmental Impact | Reduces waste, enriches soil | May leave microplastics |
| Examples | Food scraps, PLA plastics, compostable bags | Some plastics, organic matter |
Key Differences
- Compostable: Produces valuable compost that nourishes soil. Requires specific conditions (e.g., heat, moisture). Not all compostable items work in home compost bins.
- Biodegradable: Breaks down naturally but may take longer and leave residues, like microplastics. Not always environmentally beneficial.
Confusion often arises due to “greenwashing,” where products are labeled as “eco-friendly” without meeting compostable or biodegradable standards. Always check for certifications like BPI or OK Compost to ensure authenticity.
Benefits of Using Compostable Materials
- Environmental Impact: Diverts organic waste from landfills, reducing methane emissions (EPA estimates organic waste contributes 58% of landfill methane).
- Soil Enrichment: Compost adds nutrients, improves soil structure, and enhances water retention.
- Sustainability: Reduces reliance on chemical fertilizers and supports eco-friendly products.
- Community Benefits: Encourages local composting programs and reduces waste management costs.
Limitations and Challenges of Compostable Materials
Specific composting environment
Plastics like PLA must be composted in industrial composting facilities to truly decompose. They need to maintain high temperatures of 55 to 70 degrees Celsius and strict conditions, which cannot be achieved in home composting barrels.
High cost of composting facilities
Industrial composting machines are very expensive, and most of them are in large cities. The lack of such facilities in rural areas limits the composting effect.
Environmental impact of the production process
PLA compostable plastics require a large amount of crops, which consumes land, water and fertilizers.
A 2019 "Clean Production Journal" report pointed out that the impact of large-scale planting of crops for bioplastics on the environment can even be comparable to traditional plastic production. If fossil fuels are used in the production process, the carbon footprint will be even greater.
Risk of "green shuffling"
Not all products labeled "biodegradable" or "environmentally friendly" are truly compostable. Some commercial products mislead consumers, and uncertified products pollute the composting system.
What Materials Can Be Composted
1. Food Waste
- Vegetable and fruit peels (e.g., potato skins, banana peels)
- Coffee grounds and tea leaves
- Eggshells (crushed for faster decomposition)
- Bread, grains, and pasta (without oil or sauces)
2. Plant-Based Materials
- Grass clippings (pesticide-free)
- Leaves, twigs, and small branches
- Garden trimmings (e.g., flowers, weeds)
3. Compostable Products
- Polylactic Acid (PLA) plastics: Made from corn or sugarcane, used in cups, cutlery, and packaging. Often requires industrial composting.
- Compostable bags: Certified bags for food waste or shopping, designed to break down in compost.
- Paper products: Uncoated paper towels, napkins, and cardboard (without plastic coatings or tape).
- Bamboo or wooden utensils: Often compostable if untreated.
4.Visualizing Compostable Items
Imagine your kitchen: the apple core from your snack, the coffee grounds from your morning brew, and the cardboard box from your latest delivery can all be compostable. Even some eco-friendly takeout containers labeled “compostable” can join the pile, provided they carry proper certifications.
How to Use and Dispose of Compostable Materials
Advice for consumers
Choose certified products: When buying cups, bags or cutlery, remember to look for certification marks such as BPI, TÜV or EN13432 to ensure that they are truly compostable.
Find composting facilities: You can ask your local waste disposal department, or use apps like "CompostNow" to see if there are industrial composting sites or curbside recycling programs nearby.
Separate them clearly: Don't mix compostable items with ordinary garbage or recyclables. For example, don't throw PLA cups into the recycling bin. They need special composting.
Spread environmental protection concepts: Tell family and friends about this knowledge, encourage everyone to properly handle compostable items, and help increase the demand for composting services.
Advice for businesses
Use compostable packaging: Choose certified compostable materials, such as PLA containers, which are not only environmentally friendly but also attract customers who pay attention to green living and enhance brand image.
Cooperate with composting facilities: Build a good relationship with local composting service agencies to ensure that your waste can be properly handled.
Educate customers: Write clearly on the packaging or label how to dispose of it, such as "industrial composting only", so that customers know the correct way.
Do sustainable marketing: When promoting, emphasize that you use compostable materials, but also be honest about its disposal requirements to avoid misleading.
In short, the reasonable use and disposal of compostable materials can help us reduce waste and support a more environmentally friendly future. If you want to find a nearby composting point, apps or local waste management websites are good helpers.
Conclusion
Compostable materials offer a powerful way to reduce waste, enrich soil, and combat climate change. From food scraps to certified compostable packaging, these items transform waste into a resource, supporting a healthier planet. By understanding what compostable means, identifying certified products, and starting your own compost pile, you can make a meaningful impact. Ready to get started? Explore local composting programs, invest in a backyard bin, or simply choose compostable products next time you shop. Every small step counts toward a more sustainable future.
FAQs
Compostable vs. Biodegradable?
Compostable materials break down into nutrient-rich compost under specific conditions;
Biodegradable items break down naturally but may leave residue or take longer.
Compostable products are often certified as environmentally friendly.
Can you compost compostable plastics at home?
Most compostable plastics, polylactic acid (PLA), require industrial composting facilities under high temperatures and controlled conditions. Check the product label to see if it's suitable for home composting.
How long does it take for compostable items to break down?
Under ideal conditions, compostable materials take anywhere from weeks to months to break down. Food scraps may take 2-4 weeks, while compostable plastics may take 3-6 months in industrial facilities.
Are all compostable products safe for the environment?
Certified compostable products are safe because they meet strict standards for decomposition and toxicity. Products that are not certified or have unclear labels may not be fully compostable, so be sure to verify the certification.
Can I put compostable items in my regular trash bin?
If composting isn’t possible, compostable items in your regular trash bin will still end up in landfill. They are less harmful than traditional plastics because they are designed to break down more naturally.
