Biodegradable vs Compostable Packaging

More Australians than ever are aware of the environmental impact of single use plastics. From takeaway coffee cups to online delivery boxes, packaging waste is everywhere. Many businesses are switching to alternatives labelled “biodegradable” or “compostable”. But what do these terms actually mean? And which one is better for the planet?

The truth is that biodegradable and compostable are not the same. In fact, some products labelled “biodegradable” can cause more harm than good. This guide explains the difference. It also helps you choose the right sustainable packaging for your Australian cafe, restaurant, or food business.

What Is Biodegradable Packaging?

Biodegradable packaging is designed to break down into natural components over time. This happens through the action of microorganisms like bacteria and fungi. In theory, biodegradable plastics will eventually disappear.

However, the term “biodegradable” has no time limit. A product can be called biodegradable even if it takes 100 years to break down. It also has no requirement about what is left behind. Some biodegradable plastics leave toxic residue or microplastics in the environment.

Landfill Biodegradable Plastics

Some companies use additives to help plastics break down faster in landfills. These are often called landfill biodegradable plastics. They can break down in decades rather than centuries. However, they still require oxygen to biodegrade. Landfills are often tightly packed with very little oxygen. So even these products may not break down as promised.

The Problem with Oxo-Degradable Plastics

Oxo-degradable plastics are a different category. They contain metallic salt additives that cause the plastic to fragment into tiny pieces when exposed to sunlight and oxygen. This process takes 12 to 24 months. But fragmentation is not the same as biodegradation. The tiny plastic pieces remain in the environment as microplastics. They can harm wildlife and enter the food chain.

Australia’s National Plastic Plan has phased out oxo-degradable plastics. They are no longer a valid solution for sustainable packaging.

Key Takeaway on Biodegradable

What Is Compostable Packaging?

Compostable packaging goes a step further than biodegradable. For a product to be called compostable, it must meet strict standards. It must break down into carbon dioxide, water, and nutrient rich organic matter (compost) within a specified time. It must leave no toxic residue.

There are two main types of compostable packaging in Australia: home compostable and commercially compostable.

Home Compostable Packaging

Home compostable products are certified to break down in a home compost bin or pile. They work at lower temperatures and over a longer period, typically several months to one or two years. Home compostable packaging is a great option for households and small businesses with access to a compost pile.

However, home compostable plastics are not recyclable. They cannot go into standard soft plastic recycling streams.

Pak360 offers home compostable products certified to Australian/NZ standard AS5810.

Commercially Compostable Packaging

Commercially compostable packaging requires a commercial compost facility. These facilities maintain high temperatures (around 60 degrees Celsius), plenty of oxygen, and good moisture levels. Under these conditions, the packaging breaks down within 12 weeks.

The problem in Australia is that there are very few commercial compost facilities. Most councils do not accept commercially compostable packaging in green bins. As a result, most commercially compostable packaging ends up in general rubbish bins destined for landfill. In a landfill, it will not break down because the conditions are not right.

Certified Compostable Standards

In Australia, look for certifications like AS4736 (commercial compostable) and AS5810 (home compostable). International certifications like BPI and TUV are also reliable. Always choose certified compostable products over uncertified “biodegradable” items.

Biodegradable vs Compostable: The Key Differences

Which Is Better for Australian Businesses?

For most Australian food businesses, the best choice is certified compostable packaging combined with a compost collection service. This is exactly what Pak360 offers.

Why Compostable Is Better

Compostable packaging breaks down completely into soil. It does not leave microplastics. It supports the circular economy by turning waste into a resource. When paired with a compost collection service, you can divert waste from landfill and even generate renewable energy.

Why Biodegradable Is Often Misleading

Biodegradable plastics often end up in landfill. Even landfill biodegradable additives require specific conditions that may not exist. Oxo-degradable plastics are now banned in Australia for good reason. Without clear certification, the term “biodegradable” is mostly marketing.

The Pak360 Solution

Pak360 provides 100% compostable packaging made from plants. We offer both home and commercially compostable options. But we do not stop there. We also offer a compost collection service that picks up your used packaging and food waste. The waste is sent to a commercial composting facility where it breaks down properly. In some cases, the methane captured during composting is used to generate electricity.

This is a true closed loop system. You use compostable packaging. We collect it. It becomes clean compost or renewable energy. No landfill. No microplastics.

What About Recyclable Packaging?

Recycling is another important end of life scenario. The waste hierarchy places recycling above composting. This is because recycling keeps materials in use for longer. However, many soft plastics cannot be recycled easily in Australia. Soft plastic recycling programs like REDcycle have faced challenges.

Pak360 focuses on compostable packaging because it is the most practical solution for food waste and takeaway containers. Food contaminated packaging cannot be recycled anyway. Composting is the best option.

If you need recyclable packaging, look for clear recycling symbols. But remember that compostable packaging is not recyclable. Do not mix the two.

Common Questions About Biodegradable and Compostable Packaging

How to Make the Switch to Compostable Packaging

Switching to compostable packaging is easy with Pak360. Follow these steps:

Conclusion

The difference between biodegradable and compostable packaging matters. Biodegradable sounds good but often fails in practice. Compostable packaging, especially when paired with a collection service, is a genuine solution to plastic waste.

Pak360 is proud to offer 100% compostable packaging made from plants. We also provide a compost collection service that closes the loop. We serve businesses across Australia.

Do not be misled by greenwashing. Choose certified compostable. Choose Pak360.