We're the first to admit that Compostable Packaging is not a perfect solution to the world's plastic hangover, but done right, we think it is definitely a better one. In this post we're going to address some of the key concerns people have regarding compostable alternatives to plastic.

CONCERN 1: LABELLING

Unless labelling is obvious, it can be difficult to distinguish between compostable 'plastic' and ordinary plastic meaning they might end up contaminating each other's recycling stream 

Our Approach

All of our packaging has very clear instructions for disposal/end-of-life (legible without strong reading glasses)! It is worth noting, that responsible labelling is a challenge facing all packaging types, not just compostables and we support the work the Australian Packaging Covenant and PREP are doing to introduce a more comprehensive and comprehensible labelling system.

CONCERN 2: END OF LIFE OPTIONS

There are few commercial composters and even fewer are able to process packaging.

Our Approach

Our products don't require commercial / industrial composting facilities to break down, instead people can deal with them in their own backyard composts. 95% of our packaging is HOME compostable and the remainder is pending certification.

We are also in the process of establishing a global network of collection points for certified compostable packaging. This means that even if you don't have a compost at home, you will be able to take your used packaging (and potentially your food scraps too) somewhere nearby and have it turned into compost.

And again, this issue is not limited to compostables. The options for recycling plastics are extremely limited and no less challenging.

CONCERN 3: FEEDSTOCKS

The plants used to make bioplastics might otherwise be a food source for humans or animals, or the land they are grown on might have been used for the same ... thus the bioplastics industry could be contributing to food scarcity and/or deforestation.

Our Approach

The cornstarch the goes into our packaging is processed from waste corn, corn that has been stockpiled for decades in case of famine, but which is now not suitable for human or animal consumption.

CONCERN 4: SORTING

It is very difficult to sort compostable plastics from non-compostable with current technology.

Our Approach

We make it super-clear on our packaging that they are not to be put in with ordinary recycling. On the back of these Compostable Mailers (pictured) it very clearly states "I'm not for the recycling bin ... Put me in with your food scraps and garden waste instead ..."

CONCERN 5: CONDITIONS

Home composts may not reach the conditions required to break down certified home compostable materials.

Our Approach

We're don't profess to be composting experts - our own composts are pretty low fi - but we do test all our packaging in them and they break down even quicker than they are certified to do. We also understand that at lower temperatures, the packaging may not breakdown as quickly as certified to, they will just take a little longer, but still a tiny fraction of the time it takes plastic to disintegrate into micro-plastics.

CONCERN 6: GREENWASHING

Unfortunately, despite being such a new industry, it is already rife with misleading information and companies claiming compostability but not substantiating it. If in doubt assume 'compostable' means compostable only in a commercial or industrial facility.

Our Approach

We've taken it upon ourselves to help educate people as to the type of certifications available for compostability. We are proud to carry the AS5810 certification for home compostability which is the most stringent in the world. When you see the symbol AS5810 symbol like on our zip lock bag pictured here , as well as saying 'Home Compostable, AS5180' it must also be accompanied by an ABA number below. If not, then its fraudulent and unverified.

CONCERN 7: CIRCULARITY

Compostable packaging is only a circular solution if it is:

Our Approach:

CONCERN 8: METHANE

Our Approach