all the advantages and disadvantages

Sustainability plays a large and important role in all areas of the economy - including the packaging industry. One way of making packaging products more ecological, if necessary, is compostable packaging. But is it really a useful alternative to packaging made from conventional or recyclable materials? We take a closer look at the advantages and disadvantages.

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All bioplastics - right?

To understand what is meant by compostable packaging, one should also take a look at other common ecological declarations with which packaging is labeled. All too often, all categories are lumped together under the term "bioplastic," which regularly leads to misunderstandings.

Bio-based plastics

Bio-based plastics are made from renewable raw materials. Corn, starch or cellulose, for example, are used. The proportion of natural materials can be 100 percent, but significantly lower compositions are also possible. A bio-based plastic does not necessarily have to be biodegradable. Bio-PET, for example, is made from Brazilian sugar cane but it cannot be biodegraded.

Biodegradable plastics

Biodegradable refers to the disposal of the materials. A plastic may be called biodegradable if it decomposes into water and carbon dioxide within an unspecified time due to biological processes. However, this does not include statements about the production of the plastic: This does not have to be based on biological materials.

Compostable packaging

Now that the terms bio-based and biodegradable have been clarified, the definition of compostable packaging becomes understandable: this refers to materials that decompose within a specified period of time through clearly defined processes and under specific conditions. Accordingly, it is a special form of biodegradable plastic. Mostly compostable packaging is made of polylactic acid (PLA).

All about compost

When most people hear the word "compost" they think of a somewhat dingy, somewhat smelly pile in the farthest corner of the garden, with flies circling around it. But in fact, that represents only a relatively small percentage of composting systems, the so-called home composts. Industrial composting facilities account for the larger share.

WWhat does compost actually mean?

During composting, biodegradable materials are increasingly decomposed by microorganisms. The humus material that is crucial in this process is excellent as a fertilizer, as it contains many nutrients, and so contributes to the growth of other plants. In a compost - whether in the garden or industrial - one tries to create the most perfect conditions possible for the microorganisms to do their work.

Home composting

Open and closed systems can be used for home composting. In closed systems, very good conditions can be created for the microorganisms, which is why the organic waste also decomposes faster here. To achieve this, regular turning of the contents must ensure that harmful microorganisms - such as mold - have no chance. This is not necessary with open systems, as sufficient ventilation is always provided. On the other hand, the decomposition of the waste is much slower and depends on the weather conditions. All organic waste such as fruit and vegetable leftovers, garden waste or tea bags and coffee filters may be placed on a home compost. Compostable packaging is explicitly not included! However, this point will be discussed in more detail.

Industrial composting

Industrial composting involves creating the ideal conditions for compostable material to decompose as quickly as possible. This includes controlling the oxygen content and the temperature, which averages 50 degrees or higher. So, unlike home composting, much higher temperatures are achieved, which also affects composting.

The requirements for compostable packaging

In order for packaging to receive the "compostable packaging" label, it must meet several characteristics:

• After 90 days, 90 percent of the packaging must have rotted in an industrial composting facility.
• The composting of the packaging must not have a negative impact on the rest of the composting process. This would be the case, for example, if pollutants were released as a result.
• The composting process must not release any toxic substances.

EN standard or NF T51-800:?

If all of these above conditions are met, a package is certified as compostable packaging in accordance with the European standard EN and is suitable for industrial composting. However, this does not mean that it may also be used in home composting. Many compostable packages decompose only at the high temperatures of industrial composting. Suitability for home compost is additionally certified by the NF T51-800: standard. Only if there is a corresponding certificate on the packaging, it may be disposed of in the home compost.

Compostable packaging - the status quo

Compostable packaging selection

Compostable packaging is relatively rarely offered in retail stores, but consumers can choose from a wide range of products online. Some suppliers specialize in sustainable packaging, while others see the products as an additional offer for their customers. Some examples of compostable packaging are shipping bags, packaging chips as filling material for boxes, special bubble wrap, food packaging such as cups, bowls, plates or platters, packaging film, labels and CD, DVD or book packaging.

Does compostable packaging always make sense?

To answer this question, you first have to consider what packaging is actually used for. They should

• protect products from external influences and so contribute to a longer service life.
• package products safely and hygienically to eliminate contamination.
• keep liquids away from the product or shield liquid products from the outside.

Compostable packaging makes sense if it has all these properties without any limitations compared to conventional plastic. Otherwise, the products are sustainable, but still not alternatives - after all, a drinking cup that starts to decompose when it comes into contact with liquids would be extremely nonsensical.

Especially for packaging used in direct food contact, the safety of the contents and the consumer is a priority. Otherwise, the packaging has no purpose. If you still don't want to do without sustainable food packaging, we recommend our stand-up pouches made of 100% recyclable mono-plastic, for example.

Compostable packaging - all advantages and disadvantages at a glance

Advantages of compostable packaging

• Complete decomposition: If packaging is disposed of via industrial compost, only carbon dioxide and water remain after disposal. This means that this packaging is certainly more environmentally friendly than conventional plastic, the remains of which are detectable everywhere.
• Use of harmless materials: If packaging is certified according to EN , it is guaranteed that no materials were used in the production that are contaminated with harmful substances.

Disadvantages of compostable packaging

• Difficulties with disposal: There is still no sensible disposal option for compostable packaging. They are not allowed in the brown garbage can because special industrial facilities are needed for rotting. However, they are also frequently sorted out in the yellow garbage can because the total proportion has so far been so low that composting is not economically viable. As a result, the packaging is incinerated together with residual waste.
• Low output: Unlike home compost, which produces fertilizer, industrial composting facilities usually produce only carbon dioxide and water, as well as a small amount of biomass. This is due on the one hand to the accelerated process, and on the other hand to the materials being composted.
• Loss of raw materials: At the end of the composting process, no products come out that can be used again for the production of new goods. Therefore, the raw materials are lost after one-time use. You can learn more about this in our article comparing composting and recycling.

Conclusion

Compostable packaging sounds good, but it is only a limited sustainable alternative. According to the current state of affairs, much more efficient and ecological is effective recycling or the use of products that are designed for multiple use. This is also the conclusion of the German Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation, Nuclear Safety and Consumer Protection, which describes the packaging as not a good alternative.

So at first glance, the principle of compostable packaging looks good; nevertheless, so far it only accounts for a small part of the total volume. So in which areas do we already find compostable packaging? And when do they make sense at all?

Nowadays, a majority of businesses are switching to eco-friendly packaging. As a result, the green packaging movement is likely to stick around for the next couple of years.

But is the switch really worth it? What are the benefits and drawbacks of doing so?

Let&#;s find out..

Environmental Pros

Helping the environment is simply one benefit of using eco-friendly packaging, but the truth is there&#;s a lot more it offers!

• Reduces your carbon foot print

Carbon footprint is the amount of greenhouse gases that are released in the environment as a result of human activities.

Since eco-friendly packaging uses recycled waste material, it reduces the consumption of raw heavy-energy resources. In turn, the production of eco-packaging releases fewer carbon emissions.

• Biodegradable

In addition to reducing your carbon foot print, green packaging offers an advantage even in its last stage! Depending on the material in use, the packaging will break down in industrial composting facilities.

• Zero toxins and allergens

Unlike traditional packaging which is made from synthetic and petrochemical materials, most bio-degradable packaging is non-toxic and uses allergy free materials. This reduces environmental burden and can allow your customers to live a healthier lifestyle.

As a matter of fact, did you know that when you add heat to petrochemical products such as Styrofoam, they release toxic chemicals into the food which causes harm to one&#;s health? This can be avoided when you switch to eco-friendly packaging such as paper takeout boxes!

Economic Pros

In addition to environmental advantages, there are economic ones that can benefit your business as well!

You will get efficient and thoughtful service from Wanhui Packaging Technology.

• Versatile uses

Depending on the material in use, you can reuse and repurpose eco-friendly materials several times to create multiple products for different industries.

For example, bamboo fibres are easily malleable to create not only cutlery, but takeout containers and makeup packaging as well!

• Improves brand image

As more people become environmentally conscious, they are constantly seeking out ways to make a positive impact on the environment without making any major changes in their existing lifestyle. 

As a result, when you switch to green packaging, it can drastically improve your brand.

On the other hand,  when you continue to use plastic packaging, it can actually do even more harm and can destroy your company&#;s image. Interested in finding out why? Be sure to read our blog post!

• Reduces costs

By switching to eco-friendly materials, you can successfully reduce packaging waste by cutting down on excessive space. Moreover, unlike heavy-energy resources, eco-friendly packaging is lightweight.

In turn, you can successfully reduce shipping and overhead costs!

• Expands customer base

Last but not least, eco-friendly packaging can help you expand your customer base and attract new customers.

In the beginning of ,  Trivium Packaging and Boston Consulting Group (BCG) released a report on the topic of sustainable packaging. The report largely bases itself on a survey that was conducted by BCG and includes responses from more than 15,000 U.S., Europe and South American consumers.

Within the report, they found that 74% of consumers said they would pay more for sustainable packaging!

Similarly, papers published by Evergreen Packaging notes an upward trend in consumer preferences towards green packaging as well.

Consequently, this is an opportunity for you to push your company as an environmentally conscious organization!

The Cons to Eco-friendly Packaging

Given that there are a lot of advantages to green packaging, it&#;s important to consider their cons as well!

First of all, the cost of switching can be expensive for many small businesses. In some cases, the switch to using green materials can lead to higher costs in your production process or elsewhere in your operations.

Likewise, although green packaging can bring cost savings in the long run, it&#;s difficult to anticipate at what point that&#;ll happen.

Another criticism for many eco-friendly packaging materials is that they require the cultivation of crops. For example, corn-starch packaging, better known as PLA comes from corn.

Corn in itself is a renewable and cost effective crop. However, the use of it in packaging is criticized by those who feel it can serve a better purpose to help alleviate poverty and hunger.

Lastly, the materials in use can effectively breakdown only if disposed of correctly. There&#;s a high risk of cross-contamination when these products end up in recycling facilities.

The cross-contamination can impact the recyclability of other products and result in even more waste than intended.

So is it worth it?

Taking into account the pros and cons, going green can be a worthwhile business pursuit.

The concern for social responsibility is already being reflected in the shift in consumer preferences to more sustainable food and household products. Going green may help your business expand, improve its brand image, and result in increased revenue!

Nonetheless, it costs time and capital investment. Going completely green may not be economically feasible or meet your current needs.

Moreover, social responsibility can really only be achieved if packaging is properly disposed of!

At the end of the day, it all comes down to personal preferences!

Here at LeKAC, we understand at times this can be a difficult decision to make. Whether you choose to make the complete switch or would like to start with small changes, we&#;re here to support you!

Our experienced packaging specialists can help the decision-making process easier by taking into account your individual needs and wallet.

Interested in finding out more? Contact us today for a free consultation,

Looking for some inspiration? Be sure to check out our paper bags, reusable bags and alternative packaging material options!

If you are looking for more details, kindly visit Biodegradable Food Packaging Bags.