As the world becomes more environmentally conscious, businesses are looking for ways to reduce their carbon footprint. One way they achieve this is by using biodegradable and/or compostable packaging. These terms are often used interchangeably, but there are some key differences between the two. In this blog post, we will define and describe what the terms "biodegradable" and "compostable" mean in the context of packaging, such as bags and films. We will also discuss why traditional LDPE packaging and compostable packaging are not perfect solutions when it comes to reducing landfill and why they may not be the best packaging solution for every application.

What does "biodegradable" mean in the context of packaging?

Biodegradable means that a material can be broken down into natural elements by microorganisms, such as bacteria or fungi. In the context of packaging, biodegradable materials can break down over time, but the process can take years, and the end product may not be environmentally friendly. For example, traditional LDPE (low-density polyethylene) packaging is “biodegradable”, but it can take hundreds of years to break down, and it can release harmful chemicals and microplastics into the environment as it degrades.

What does "compostable" mean in the context of packaging?

Compostable means that a material can break down into natural elements in a composting environment and the resulting compost can be used as a fertilizer. In the context of packaging, compostable materials are designed to break down quickly and safely in a composting environment, without releasing any harmful chemicals or residues (microplastics). Compostable packaging is made from renewable materials such as plant-based plastics and starches.

Why are traditional LDPE packaging and compostable packaging, not perfect solutions?

While both biodegradable and compostable packaging is “better” for the environment, they are not perfect solutions.

Traditional LDPE packaging is durable, versatile and economical but can take hundreds of years to biodegrade, and it can release harmful chemicals into the environment as it degrades. It also requires a lot of energy to produce and contributes to the growing problem of plastic pollution in the world's oceans and landfills.

Compostable packaging, on the other hand, requires specific conditions to break down properly, such as a commercial composting facility. If compostable packaging ends up in a landfill or the ocean, it will not break down as intended and can still contribute to pollution. Additionally, compostable packaging is often more expensive than traditional packaging, and it may not be the best packaging solution for every application.

When is compostable packaging the better solution?

Compostable packaging is the better solution for businesses that want to reduce their environmental impact and have access to a commercial composting facility. Compostable packaging is particularly suitable for items with a shorter shelf life (6 months or less) and made from organic materials. This is due to the shelf life of compostable packaging which is best used within 6 months of manufacturing; past this window and it may start to degrade in durability and performance. It is also best used in conjunction with other compostable materials as they can be bagged and composted together without any sorting required.

However, compostable packaging may not be the best solution for every application. For example, it may not be suitable for packaging products that need to be kept dry or have a long shelf life, such as electronics or clothing. It may also not be suitable for products that need to be packaged in a sterile environment, such as medical supplies. This is due to compostable packaging having poor barrier properties for gas and moisture. It is also not as long-lasting and durable as LDPE.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while the terms "biodegradable" and "compostable" are often used interchangeably, there are some key differences between the two. Biodegradable LDPE can take years to break down and isn’t actually environmentally friendly, while compostable materials are designed to break down quickly and safely in a composting environment. However, compostable packaging requires specific conditions to break down properly and may not be the best solution for every application. Businesses that want to reduce their environmental impact should consider the properties of both LDPE and compostable packaging and decide which is suitable for their needs.

Unsure which is right for you? Get in touch; we’re here to help you figure out which is best for you.