Does Compostable Packaging Really Disintegrate?

The Composting Consortium conducted the most extensive in-field study on compostable packaging in North America. It showed that compostable packaging disintegrates effectively under reasonable operating conditions.

The Composting Consortium recently launched an 18-month study to understand how certified compostable packaging breaks down in real-world conditions. This initiative represents the most significant known field test of its kind in North America. Researchers aimed to fill essential data gaps and provide actionable insights for stakeholders in the composting and packaging industries.

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“This study sought to replace anecdotes with data and opinions with insights.”The Composting Consortium

The Largest Compostability Study in North America

That’s the statement that The Composting Consortium made regarding this study, which is the largest conducted in North America and the first testing period that piloted the ASTM Technical Committee WK80528 for developing a standard in field tests for evaluating the disintegration of compostable items.

Moreover, the study tested over 23,000 packaging units, including 31 fiber and compostable plastic packaging types. These tests were conducted across ten diverse composting facilities in the United States. Additionally, researchers measured the disintegration of these materials by mass and surface area under various composting conditions. Consequently, this rigorous methodology ensured that the findings were comprehensive and reliable.

Compost partners and critical attributes of each facility. Courtesy of The realities of compostable packaging disintegration in composting systems.

Compostables do Disintegrate

One of the most practical findings is that certified compostable packaging disintegrates effectively under reasonable operating conditions. These conditions, such as proper moisture, temperature, and oxygen levels, are within the control of composting facilities. Moreover, the successful breakdown of compostable plastics, regardless of the composting method or process time, underscores their versatility and effectiveness.

Number and types of compostable packaging tested. Courtesy of The realities of compostable packaging disintegration in composting systems.

Another crucial insight is that maintaining optimal composting conditions is critical to the effectiveness of compostable materials. Agitation significantly aids the breakdown of fiber packaging in compost piles, while consistent moisture levels above 50% are conducive to the disintegration of fiber packaging. These factors underscore the need for careful management of composting conditions.

Recommend Conditions for Rapid Composting are outlined in The Composting Handbook (Rynk et al., 2022).

The data revealed that compostable plastic packaging achieved an average of 98% disintegration, exceeding the 90% minimum threshold. Similarly, compostable fiber packaging broke down by 83% in surface area on average, surpassing the 80% minimum threshold. Turning and mechanical agitation positively influence the disintegration of fiber packaging. These results provide strong evidence for the efficacy of compostable packaging.

What’s Next for Compostable Packaging?

Moving forward, a three-pronged approach is essential to unlock the full potential of compostable packaging.

• Ensuring packaging design functions seamlessly across various composting technologies
• Designing clear and consistent labeling
• Investment in expanding composting infrastructure across the United States

Designing Clear and Consistent Labeling

Designing certified food-contact compostable packaging is critical for success. Brands, retailers, and packaging manufacturers must align their products with diverse composting technologies. Additionally, they should ensure compatibility with various composting methods to facilitate effective breakdown. Ineffective design can cause an incomplete breakdown, which negatively impacts compost quality. Furthermore, poor design burdens composters with sorting challenges, complicating the composting process.

Expanding Composting Infrastructure

Scaling up infrastructure is crucial to ensure sufficient capacity for processing certified food-contact compostable packaging. This helps divert waste from landfills and captures environmental benefits. Historically, the U.S. composting industry focused solely on yard waste. However, it is now undergoing an exciting shift towards waste diversion from landfills. Embracing a more comprehensive range of organic materials, including food waste, presents a tremendous opportunity for the industry.

To read the complete study click HERE