Biodegradable vs Compostable Packaging FAQ
What is the difference between biodegradable and compostable?
Biodegradable simply means a material can be broken down by biological action — with no defined timeframe, environment, or end product. Compostable is a certified performance claim: the material breaks down within a defined period in a composting environment and leaves no toxic residue, verified against standards such as ASTM D6400 or EN 13432.
Is 'biodegradable' a reliable environmental claim?
No — unqualified biodegradable claims are vague and often misleading, since almost everything degrades eventually. The FTC Green Guides caution against degradable claims unless the product will completely decompose within a reasonably short time under the consumer's actual disposal conditions. 'Compostable' with certification is the stronger, defensible claim.
What standards certify compostable packaging?
The common standards are ASTM D6400 and EN 13432 for industrial compostability, verified by third-party programs such as BPI (US) or TÜV and DIN Certco (Europe). Certification confirms the material breaks down within the standard's timeframe and passes plant-toxicity and residue tests.
Can a package be biodegradable but not compostable?
Yes. Some materials biodegrade slowly or only under specific conditions without meeting compostability standards — for example, certain bioplastics that fragment but do not fully break down within the compost timeframe. That is exactly why 'biodegradable' without certification tells a buyer almost nothing.
How are compostable claims regulated in the EU and US?
In the US, the FTC Green Guides govern environmental claims, and compostability claims should reflect real access to composting facilities. In the EU, the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation defines packaging requirements, and a green-claims directive is tightening evidence requirements for environmental marketing. Both regimes push brands toward certified, specific claims.
What claim should a brand use for food-service packaging?
If the packaging is certified, say 'BPI-certified compostable' or 'EN 13432 compostable' and name the environment (industrial compost). If it is recyclable paper or board, say 'recyclable' with local access in mind. Avoid unqualified words such as 'green,' 'eco,' or 'biodegradable' — they invite scrutiny and tell shoppers nothing specific.