• In the right circumstances, compostable plastic packaging is created from renewable resources and is intended to decompose into nutrient-rich soil. 
• Compostable plastic packaging, which could be more expensive than conventional plastic packaging, can only sometimes be handled by industrial composting facilities. 
• Compostable plastic packaging is not as strong or long-lasting as conventional plastic packaging and is only appropriate for specific uses.

Many businesses are looking for more environmentally friendly packaging options as worries about plastic pollution and environmental sustainability continue to rise. Compostable plastic packaging created from renewable materials intended to decompose into nutrient-rich soil is one choice that has recently gained appeal. Compostable plastic packaging does come with some difficulties and restrictions, though. This article will address ten frequently asked concerns about biodegradable plastic packaging to assist supply chain and procurement managers in making wise packaging decisions.

‍

#1 What is compostable plastic packaging? 

Compostable plastic packaging is created from renewable resources, such as plant-based materials, and is intended to decompose into nutrient-rich soil when disposed of properly. Compostable plastic packaging has the potential to dramatically reduce waste and help create healthy soil, in contrast to conventional plastic packaging, which is derived from petroleum-based ingredients and can take hundreds of years to decompose in the environment.

‍

#2 How is it different from traditional plastic packaging? 

The origin of the material is one of the critical distinctions between the biodegradable plastic packaging and conventional plastic packaging. Compostable plastic packaging is created from renewable resources, such as plant-based materials, as opposed to traditional plastic packaging, which is made from petroleum-based components. This indicates that biodegradable plastic packaging is more sustainable and has a smaller environmental footprint than conventional plastic packaging.

Another significant distinction is how the two types of packaging decompose in the environment. When disposed of properly, compostable plastic packaging can degrade into nutrient-rich soil in a year or two, whereas conventional plastic packaging takes hundreds of years, if ever, to degrade. This increases the viability of biodegradable plastic packaging as a waste reduction and soil health solution.

‍

#3 What are the benefits of using compostable plastic packaging? 

There are several benefits to using compostable plastic packaging, including:

• Reducing waste: The ability of biodegradable plastic packaging to reduce waste is one of its key advantages. Compostable plastic packaging aids in lowering trash production because it can decompose into the soil instead of remaining in the environment as litter or filling landfills. 
• Conservation of natural resources: Compostable plastic packaging helps protect the environment. Petroleum, a limited resource that needs energy-intensive techniques to obtain and refine, is used to make traditional plastic packaging. Compostable plastic packaging, on the other hand, is created from resources that can be renewed naturally, such as plant-based materials.
• Enhancing soil health: Compostable plastic packaging cuts waste, conserves natural resources and improves soil health. Compostable plastic packaging delivers nutrients and organic matter to the soil as it decomposes, increasing soil fertility and structure. This may benefit industries like agriculture and others that depend on healthy soil.

‍

#4 How is it disposed of? 

Plastic packaging that can be composted should be discarded in a composting facility or at home in a compost pile so that it can decompose and enrich the soil. It shouldn't be disposed of in a landfill because it won't have access to oxygen and other conditions necessary for proper decomposition. To break down biodegradable plastic packaging into the soil, industrial composting facilities contain the correct machinery and environmental conditions, including adequate heat, moisture, and oxygen ratio. If your customers dispose of compostable plastic packaging at home, they can mix it with other organic wastes like food scraps and yard trimmings in their compost bin. Maintaining the optimum ratio of carbon and nitrogen in your compost pile and ensuring that the pile is moist and well-aerated are crucial for ensuring that the compostable plastic packaging decomposes efficiently.

‍

#5 Are all industrial composting facilities able to accept compostable plastic packaging? 

Before discarding anything, be sure the facility can take compostable plastic packaging because not all industrial composting facilities are prepared to do so. Only 20% of industrial composting facilities in the US can process compostable plastics, according to a study by the BioCycle Journal. This is partial because processing these minerals requires additional equipment and infrastructure. But as the popularity of compostable plastic packaging grows, more facilities will probably be able to accept it in the future.

‍

#6 How long does it take to compost? 

Depending on the type of plastic and the environment it is exposed to, compostable plastic packaging can decompose into the soil at various times. Compostable plastic packaging manufactured from plant-based starches can spoil in a compost pile within a year or two, according to the Biodegradable Products Institute (BPI). Some compostable plastic packaging constructed from other ingredients might take longer to decompose.

‍

#7 What are the limitations of compostable plastic packaging in terms of recycling and disposal? 

Since compostable plastic packaging is intended to decompose into the soil rather than be converted into new plastic, it cannot be recycled in the conventional sense. Compostable plastic packaging must be disposed of in a composting facility or home in a compost pile where it has access to the ideal temperature, humidity, and oxygen levels to decompose into the soil.

‍

#8 How does the cost of compostable plastic packaging compare to traditional plastic packaging? 

Due to the expense of renewable resources and the complex manufacturing processes required, compostable plastic packaging may be more expensive than conventional plastic packaging. The cost of biodegradable plastic packaging is typically 15% to 20% more costly than traditional packaging, according to a study by the BioCycle Journal. For certain businesses, the longer-term environmental advantages of biodegradable plastic packaging may outweigh the price.

‍

#9 How does the durability and shelf life of compostable plastic packaging compare to traditional plastic packaging? 

Depending on the precise type of plastic and the circumstances it is subjected to, the robustness and shelf life of compostable plastic packaging may vary. Some types of plastic packaging that can be composted might be less long-lasting and have a lower shelf life than conventional plastic packaging. Companies must carefully evaluate their unique requirements and any potential trade-offs before selecting between traditional and biodegradable plastic packaging.

‍

#10 In which applications is compostable plastic packaging a suitable replacement for traditional plastic packaging? 

Given that it may have a varied level of durability and may not be the best option for some applications, compostable plastic packaging may not be an acceptable solution for all types of traditional plastic packaging. When considering whether to transition to compostable plastic packaging, businesses should carefully assess their supply chain's unique requirements and procurement requirements. The price, longevity, and accessibility of composting facilities are essential.

In conclusion, businesses aiming to lessen their influence on the environment and decrease waste are increasingly choosing compostable plastic packaging. It has a lot of advantages, such as being made of renewable resources and decomposing into nutrient-rich soil, but it also has certain drawbacks. It could cost more than conventional plastic packaging and require more durability or longer shelf life. Additionally, it cannot be easy to dispose of compostable plastic packaging because not all industrial composting facilities are set up to accept it. When determining whether to transition to compostable plastic packaging, it is crucial for businesses to thoroughly assess their unique requirements and the availability of composting facilities.

Are you interested now in seeing if compostable plastic packaging might be beneficial for your company as well? Speak to one of our packaging and procurement experts today!