Compostable Bags: Everything You Need To Know

Introduction To Compostable Bags

If you’re looking for an environmentally friendly way to dispose of your trash, compostable bags might be the perfect option for you. These bags are made from biodegradable materials that can be composted in a compost bin or pile. In this blog post, we will discuss everything you need to know. We’re also excited to spotlight Plastno, a trailblazer in the production of 100% compostable plastic bags. And here’s the exciting part: Plastno is offering our readers an exclusive discount on their products (see below)!

Ingredients: Natural Materials Like Cornstarch, Vegetable Oil

Compostable bags are an eco-friendly alternative to traditional plastic bags. Unlike plastic, these are made from natural materials like coffee grounds, cornstarch, or vegetable oil. As a result, they break down into compost, which can be used to fertilize the soil. These are also typically stronger than plastic ones, so they can better resist tearing and breaking.

Compostable Is Not Biodegradable

However, these products should not be confused with biodegradable ones. Biodegradable bags are made from synthetic materials that eventually break down into small pieces of plastic. While biodegradable bags may be less harmful to the environment than traditional plastic bags, they still take centuries to decompose completely. In contrast, compostable bags decompose quickly and completely, making them a much more sustainable option.

compostable bags

Why Are Compostable Bags Important

Compostable bags are important because they help to reduce the amount of waste that ends up in landfills. Unlike traditional plastics, these can be broken down by bacteria and other microorganisms. This process, known as composting, results in the production of beneficial compost that can be used to improve soil quality.

In addition to reducing the amount of waste in landfills, these also help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The process of decomposing organic matter in the anaerobic conditions of a landfill releases methane, a powerful greenhouse gas. However, when compost is properly managed, it can serve as a carbon sink, helping offset some of the methane emissions from other sources. As a result, compostable bags play an important role in mitigating climate change.

Certification – How To Evaluate Claims Of Compostability

BPI (Biodegradable Products Institute) Certification and TUV Certification are helpful standards that indicate a product’s environmental impact, with a particular focus on its compostability and biodegradability.

  1. BPI Certification: The Biodegradable Products Institute (BPI) is a professional association that promotes the use, development, and acceptance of compostable products. A product that has been BPI Certified has undergone rigorous testing to ensure it will safely compost in a municipal or commercial facility. This certification is based on the standards set by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), specifically ASTM D6400 and D6868. Products bearing the BPI logo have been verified to decompose quickly, completely and safely, without leaving any harmful residue.
  2. TUV Certification (2 different certifications): TUV, or Technischer Überwachungsverein, is a German organization that validates the safety and quality of products. TUV provides two key certifications: TUV Austria’s OK Compost for industrial composting and OK Compost HOME for home composting. These are based on the European standard EN 13432. Products with these certifications have been tested to ensure they will biodegrade in an industrial composting plant or a home compost heap respectively, within a specified time frame.

Both BPI and TUV certifications are aimed at reassuring consumers that the products they purchase are indeed capable of biodegrading as claimed by the manufacturers, contributing to better waste management and environmental conservation.

Compostable Containers In General

Compostable containers are an essential step in reducing the environmental impact of waste. This not only reduces the amount of waste sent to landfills but also provides a valuable source of nutrients for plants.

While compostable containers are more expensive than traditional plastic bags, they offer a number of advantages that make them worth the investment. In addition to being better for the environment, compostable containers are also stronger and more durable than plastic containers. They can also be used multiple times, which further reduces their environmental impact. For these reasons, compostable containers are an ideal choice for anyone looking to reduce their waste footprint.

Companies Selling Compostable Bags

An increasing number of companies are now selling compostable bags and prices vary widely. Some companies sell certified compostable bags, which have been tested to meet specific standards for compostability. However, not all of these are certified. In general, certified compostable bags will cost more than non-certified ones.

Below Are Some Of The Companies Selling Compostable Bags

First, we’re excited to introduce you to Plastno, a pioneering enterprise committed to an environmentally conscious future. Plastno is a frontrunner in the manufacturing of compostable plastic bags, championing innovative and sustainable materials for everyday use.

Plastno compostable bags are certified

Plastno has generously offered a unique discount code to readers of ShrinkThatFootprint: just enter TAKE10 which will give you 10% off your order!

  • Plastno: Plastno is a no plastic company making plant-based bags for your home that’s safe for the planet. Made with plant-based materials, Plastno compostable waste bags are strong and durable for your household trash, and are certified compostable by BPI and TUV for completely breaking down in commercial composters and  at home in less than a year without leaving any toxic residue.

Other Compostable Bag Companies

We have compiled a larger list of compostable bag companies here as well.

  • BioBag: BioBag is an industry leader in providing bags and films for the collection of organic waste for the purpose of composting. Their bags are BPI-certified compostable and biodegradable.
  • UNNI: UNNI offers ASTM D6400 certified compostable bags in a variety of sizes. They market these as an eco-friendly alternative to traditional plastic bags.
  • GreenPolly: This company offers a line of compostable bags, with their products being BPI-certified and meeting ASTM D6400 specifications.
  • Glad: Glad, known for a wide range of waste and food storage solutions, also offers compostable bags. Their compostable bags are BPI-certified and meet ASTM D6400 specifications. Since it’s only one line of bags, we linked to the single line not the whole company.
  • If You Care: This company is focused on environmentally friendly kitchen and household products, including compostable trash bags which are certified according to the European standard EN 13432.

What To Watch Out For When Buying

Compostable bags are a great way to reduce your environmental impact, but there are a few things you need to watch out for when purchasing them:

  1. Make sure the bags are made from plant-based materials like paper or cornstarch.
  2. Check that the bags are certified by a third-party organization.
  3. Be sure to compost the bags within six months of use; otherwise, they will break down just like regular plastic bags.

It’s always a good idea to check with your local waste management facility to ensure that your bags will be properly processed. Additionally, company offerings and certifications can change over time, so I would recommend checking the most recent information about these companies and their products.

By following these simple tips, you can be confident that you’re using it in the most sustainable way possible.

Going Beyond Bags

Composting is a great way to reduce your carbon footprint, and compostable products can help make the process easier. With the advancement of science, compostable plastic can be used to make a variety of products, including compostable sandwich bags, compostable straws, compostable plates, compostable bags food waste, etc.

These products can be used for a variety of purposes and are available in a variety of sizes and colors and can be custom-printed with logos or other designs. These are an environmentally-friendly alternative to traditional plastic products and can help to reduce the amount of plastic waste.

Compostable Sacks

Compostable sacks are an important composting tool. They are used to line compost bins and keep food scraps and other organic matter from coming into contact with the bin. This helps to prevent pests and odors.

Compostable Bowls

Unlike paper or plastic bowls, compostable bowls can be broken down by bacteria and fungi into nutrient-rich compost that can be used to fertilize the soil. Compostable bowls are also available in different sizes and shapes to fit your needs. Compostable bowls can also be used to store food in the fridge or freezer. These are made from PLA, a biodegradable plastic derived from cornstarch.

Compostable Trash Bags

Compostable trash bags are an important step in reducing the amount of waste sent to landfills each year. Since it is made from plant-based materials, it decomposes quickly in a compost heap. This means that they won’t take up valuable space in a landfill and will instead break down into nutrient-rich compost that can be used to improve your garden soil. Compostable trash bags are also more durable than traditional plastic trash bags, so you won’t have to worry about them tearing or spilling during use. And, best of all, they cost about the same as regular trash bags.

Compostable Plastic Bags

Unlike conventional plastic bags, which can take hundreds of years to break down, compostable plastic bags will break down in just a few months when exposed to the right conditions. These bags are also much stronger than conventional plastic bags, so they’re less likely to tear and leak. And because they’re made from renewable resources, these are a more sustainable choice than conventional plastic bags. A lot of stores have been offering these as an alternative to plastics which are worth more than you realize.

compostable bags
Conventional bags found at retailers are not compostable

Compostable Poop Bags For Your Dog

Compostable poop bags are an earth-friendly way to dispose of your dog’s waste. And unlike paper bags, these will not turn to mush when they get wet. Most brands are sturdy and leak-proof, making them ideal for scooping up messes on walks and in the backyard. Plus, many brands offer larger sizes, so you can use them for small trash cans or larger dog waste bins. Composting your dog’s waste is a simple and earth-friendly way to dispose of it.

Composting dog poop is generally not recommended if you intend to use it for growing vegetables as it can introduce pathogens into the compost pile. However, if you are absolutely sure that you won’t use your compost soil for growing things, and you are taking all necessary safety and sanitation precautions, then composting dog poop may be an option. Another possibility is to make a separate compost pile for the dog waste and to ensure that the compost pile is properly maintained.

Conclusion

We hope you found this compostable bag guide helpful. Again these products are a great way to reduce your carbon footprint and help the environment. These products are made from renewable resources and will break down in just a few months, making them a more sustainable choice than traditional plastic bags. Thanks for reading!

Staff Writer
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