Compostable plastics will break down naturally and leave no toxic residues behind during this process; they are also made from renewable sources and contain no traditional or virgin plastics. In Australia, compostable plastics are also certified to ensure they meet the strict rules and regulations for composting (AS4736-2006 and AS5810-2010). Biodegradable plastics are usually a mixture of traditional plastics and plant-based materials. There is also no certification process for biodegradable plastics, with most breaking down and leaving some toxic residues behind. When choosing a compostable plastic, it’s essential to look for the certification codes and also check they contain compostable polymers with no additives.

Compostable means that the product will break down into nutrient-rich soil that can be used in gardens and parks throughout the community. Industrial composting or aerobic composting is a facility that can process compostable plastics quickly, while other compostable plastics are also suitable for home composting. It is always fundamental to look for the certification codes (AS4736-2006 and AS5810-2010) and logos to ensure the product has been correctly tested for composting.

Compostable bags are typically made from renewable sources that are 100% natural, such as cornstarch. At Biotuff, all of our compostable plastics are made from compostable resins and manufactured using renewable and sustainable plant-based thermoplastic corn starch that contains no Genetically Modified Organisms (GMO). The ink on our bags is also food-grade and plant-based, meaning it is 100% safe for consumers and the environment.

This will depend on the composting environment – industrial composting or home composting. The process is much quicker in an industrial setting as the humidity and other factors can be carefully monitored. Every composting facility has different composting practices when breaking down the material. Some facilities will break down the material within 30 to 60 days and some within 90 to 120 days. In a home composting setting, the process can take longer, and upwards of 6 months. This will depend on how often the compost is turned and aerated, the generated heat, and other critical aspects that affect compost.

Compostable plastic is quickly becoming a convenient and eco-friendly alternative to traditional plastics. Typically used in single-use items like bin liners, cling wrap, nappy bags and dog waste bags, these compostable plastics can completely break down in a composting environment, whether at home or in an industrial composting facility (aerobic composting), while leaving no toxic residues behind or microplastics. Compostable plastics are made from 100% renewable sources such as corn starch and contain no GMO or other nasties.

Home compostable means that the compostable product can be processed in a home environment. The product must prove that it can break down in a home composting setting to gain credibility and certification for home composting. Compared to industrial composting, also known as aerobic composting, the process can take longer as the compost's humidity, temperature, and moisture content will not be monitored and controlled to the high level and industrial setting will produce. When purchasing compostable plastics in Australia, look for the logos and compliance codes AS 4736 and AS5810.

Most organic natural matter, from your garden waste to food scraps in the kitchen, is compostable. Compostable plastics must contain no traditional plastic or virgin plastic and be made from renewable sources such as corn starch. Being made from 100% natural plant-based materials, these can quickly break down in the correct composting environment to leave no nasty residues or microplastics behind.

Although not ideal, as all compostable plastics and items should be composted at home or in an industrial setting, compostable plastics will still break down in a landfill. However, the process can be prolonged due to the moisture, humidity, and temperature needing to be correctly monitored and maintained to achieve total breakdown in a set time frame. Compared to traditional plastics, which will take hundreds of years to break down while leaving microplastics and harsh chemicals behind, compostable plastics will eventually break down and leave no toxic residues.

All food is usually compostable; however, at Biotuff, we do have a few tips and tricks to ensure your compost bin does not start to smell or attract pests. We advise keeping clear of all dairy products except crushed egg shells, plants that may contain disease, fat and grease, bones, and meat or fish products. Adding dog or cat waste to your compost bin is also not advisable. For more tips on producing nutrient-rich compost for your garden, take a look here.

It is important to research where you can recycle these products for all compostable packaging. This can vary from state to state in Australia. However, as the demand grows and additional industrial composting facilities are created, it will become easier to recycle compostable plastics. If the product is deemed home compostable, you can also add these products to your home composting bin or pile. Many councils now offer compostable plastic bin liners in their green bins. Never put any compostable plastics into your recycling bin, as these products do not contain virgin or traditional plastics.