CR-1
CR-2
CR-5
CR-8
CR-15
CR-30
CR-50
CR-100
CR-200
CR-300
CR-500
CR-1000
CR-2000
CR-3000
CR-5000
10Tons
10KGs
30KGs
50KGs
100KGS
Food Waste ShredderHave you ever seen a product labeled “biodegradable” or “compostable” and wondered what it means? You’re not alone! The terms biodegradable and compostable are often used interchangeably. While there is some overlap, they do not mean the same thing!
All compostable products are biodegradable, but not all biodegradable products are compostable.
While it is great that sustainable products are becoming more popular, some of the terms used to describe them aren’t always clear. Understanding the definitions of terms such as compostable and biodegradable empowers everyone with the knowledge to make sustainable choices.
Both brands and consumers must know the difference. Customers want to know that they are making the best choice when purchasing from you. Your customers need to know how to properly dispose of your packaging. Being clear that your packaging is compostable creates confidence in your sustainable brand and allows consumers to make smarter purchasing decisions.
Compostable Definition: What Does Compostable Mean?
Compostable materials break down completely into their basic parts (water, carbon dioxide, and biomass). They will break down promptly at a rate consistent with similar organic materials and will not release harmful residue or toxins.
Products labeled as compostable must be tested to meet US industrial composting standards ASTM D6400 and ASTM D6868. These standards require that compostable products biodegrade and disintegrate within 90 days and leave no harmful residue. Testing includes a seed germination trial, which ensures the compost produced is not harmful to plant life.
Compostable products add value to the planet’s ecosystem by decomposing into nutrient-rich compost. Packaging that is labeled as compostable should be disposed of in a compost bin.
Biodegradable Definition: What Does Biodegradable Mean?
If something is biodegradable, it can be broken down by naturally occurring microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi. Every material will biodegrade, given enough time (even centuries!).
Unlike compostable, the term biodegradable is not regulated. There is no time limit for biodegradation, and no testing is done to ensure that the product is free from dangerous toxins. Ideall,y biodegradable material will break down quickly and safely, however, not every product advertised as biodegradable meets these criteria.
A product labeled as biodegradable without any further context is vague and misleading to consumers. Because this term is so vague, biodegradable products may contaminate compost and should be disposed of in trash collection destined for a landfill.
Which is Better, Compostable or Biodegradable?
Both terms describe a natural process for recycling organic waste. All compostable products are biodegradable, but biodegradable products are not always compostable.
The main difference is that compostable products have undergone strict testing to ensure that they break down within a specific time frame and do not release anything harmful into the environment. Biodegradable products have no such requirements, meaning that they may not be as beneficial as they first appear.
Compostable packaging will:
- Break down within the time needed by the composting environment
- Not releasing harmful toxins as it decomposes
- Create healthy compost that enriches the soil
Compostable packaging must adhere to strict standards and has been rigorously tested. Packaging labeled only as biodegradable cannot be composted and must therefore be sent to a landfill.