In this article, we will explore:
- What is the environmental impact of single-use plastic packaging?
- Is plastic food packaging safe?
- How do compostable products break down?
- How does compostable packaging benefit my business?
- What should I look for in compostable packaging?
What is the environmental impact of single-use plastic packaging?
From the beginning of its lifecycle to the end, plastic and foam packaging wreak havoc on our planet.
The production of traditional plastic depletes large amounts of fossil fuels and finite resources like oil, coal, and natural gas. During the production process, ethane and propane are often produced through cracking. This releases hazardous waste and methane into the atmosphere, further contributing to the greenhouse gas crisis.
While we produce 300 million tons of plastic each year, half of which is for single-use items, only 9% is recycled. Even things you think you can recycle, you often can't. What's not recycled, ends up in landfills, waterways, incinerators, or as litter in the environment, clogging waterways, and polluting oceans.
Plastics also break into smaller pieces called microplastics. These small pieces are often ingested by wildlife mistaking plastics for food. What's more, plastics can leach harmful chemicals, such as bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalates, into the environment and potentially into human food and water supplies.
Renewable Materials
Compostable packaging on the other hand, is made from materials like bamboo, sugarcane, and corn; renewable resources and agricultural byproducts that are already being produced.
Corn, wheat straw, bamboo, cellulose, and sugarcane are just a few examples of renewable resources used to create compostable packaging materials.
Cleaner Production
Another key advantage of compostable packaging versus foam and plastic packaging is its eco-friendly production process. Compostables require less energy to make and don’t expose workers to harmful chemicals like in traditional plastic manufacturing.
For example, making cups with PLA creates 75% fewer greenhouse gases and 50% less non-renewable energy compared to conventional plastic cups made from petroleum.
Cleaner Disposal
By using compostable materials, businesses support local composting initiatives and waste diversion programs. These initiatives reduce organic waste going to landfills and incinerators which helps lessen the strain on waste management and promotes a circular economy. For more information on how food service businesses are achieving full circle sustainability with compostable packaging, check out the video below.
Is plastic food packaging safe?
Traditional plastic food packaging can hold many toxins that can leach into food and have been linked to health issues, including cancer.
Some chemicals used in the production of plastic, such as plasticizers, stabilizers, and colorants, can migrate into food. Bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalates are chemicals of particular concern due to their potential endocrine-disrupting effects. BPA is commonly found in polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins, while phthalates are used as plasticizers in some plastics.
The leaching process is accelerated at higher temperatures which is why it’s not recommended to heat leftovers in plastic packaging in the microwave. Also, Reusing single-use plastic containers can increase the risk of chemical leaching and bacterial contamination.
In contrast, compostable packaging is a safer alternative, not only for the environment but for humans as well. It is designed to be free from harmful chemicals like PFAS making it a great option for food and beverages. It's also safe to reheat food in compostable containers. Just avoid reheating food in compostable PLA containers though - they could melt!
How do compostable containers break down?
Compostable packaging is designed to break down completely in a commercial facility in 90-180 days. Some compostable packaging, like plant fiber-based containers and PHA straws, can break down even more quickly and in a backyard compost setting. Comparatively, traditional plastics can exist in the soil or water for hundreds if not thousands of years.
During this time, plastic containers leach harmful chemicals and break down into microplastics. Microplastics are nearly impossible to remove from the environment where they accumulate. They also pose physical and toxicological risks to marine and wildlife.
In contrast, compostable materials are designed to break down to feed microorganisms, including bacteria and fungi, creating nutrient rich soil. This soil can be used in agriculture or gardening to grow new produce and plants.
Convenient Disposal
Compostable packaging offers a hassle-free disposal process. Unlike traditional plastics, which often end up in landfills or oceans, compostable materials can be integrated into composting systems, benefitting both households and businesses. Use our Find A Composter tool to find a collection service near you or explore our Home Compostable collection of packaging that can breakdown in your backyard bin alongside food scraps and yard clippings.
How does compostable packaging benefit my business?
In addition to environmental and health benefits, choosing compostable packaging allows consumers to support sustainable businesses that align with their values.
According to Technomic, 71% of consumers say it is important for restaurants to use environmentally-friendly disposable packaging. What’s more, 70% of millennials and 72% of Gen Z adults said they’d be willing to pay extra for to-go orders to cover the cost of upgraded packaging according to the National Restaurant Association.
Consumers are demanding more environmentally-responsible packaging and businesses that lead the way will benefit.
While compostable packaging may be slightly more expensive than plastic and foam packaging, it offers long-term health and environmental advantages.
Furthermore, when operators choose compostable packaging, this signals demand in the market which drives innovation and competition. Over time, this will lead to a decrease in prices as more options become available. For example, the cost of residential solar has come down by over 50% in the last decade!
70% of millennials and 72% of Gen Z adults said they’d be willing to pay extra for to-go orders to cover the cost of upgraded packaging according to the National Restaurant Association.
Positive Impacts
Many sustainable businesses pride themselves in supporting their communities. They often participate in local composting and sustainability programs as well as give their time volunteering to different local organizations to help give back.
Opting for compostable packaging creates a shift towards sustainability, inspiring other businesses to follow suit.
What should I look for in compostable packaging?
Many manufacturers of compostable packaging invest in third-party certifications to verify the environmental claims of their products and stay transparent about what they sell. Those who don’t may be lying or exaggerating about how eco-friendly their product or services are.
When choosing compostable packaging, look for certifications like BPI Certified, CMA Certified, and OK Compost Certified. These certifications ensure products will break down as intended without harming the soil.
Also, try samples of the products you’re interested in! See them, touch them, and make sure they perform for your business and your customers.
A Compostable Conclusion
Compostable packaging is not just a product but a commitment to the environment. Each decision to embrace compostable packaging sends a message of dedication to protecting the planet.
Reducing plastic pollution, minimizing carbon footprints, mitigating health and safety issues, and creating a greener future are just a few of the incredible reasons to choose compostable.
Together, we can make a difference, one responsible choice at a time.
*Right click and save the image above to reshare!