People often confuse compostable and biodegradable plastic. In short, all compostable plastic is biodegradable, but not vice versa. Sounds a bit confusing, right? Several variables distinguish compostable plastic from biodegradable plastic. Those factors include the type of components left after decomposition, how they decompose, and adherence to industry standards. Keep reading to learn the key factors that differentiate the two types of plastic.
Residual Components After Decomposition
One important variable differentiating compostable plastic from biodegradable plastic is the final product after decomposition. Compostable plastic breaks down into organic material with no toxic residues. Since it decomposes into organic constituents, compostable plastic does not cause any harm to the surroundings, and the residual matter can safely be used as topsoil. In fact, compostable products generate humus when they degrade. This element is the most crucial and richest part of any soil.
On the other hand, biodegradable plastic breaks down into smaller particles. Some of them could be just smaller pieces of inorganic material. These biodegradable products can leave traces of toxic waste known as microplastics upon degradation. Therefore, unlike compostable plastics, biodegradable products are not always eco-friendly and should not be mixed with the compostable matter.
Decomposition Settings
Compostable products require a particular environment to decompose. Some municipalities have composting facilities which create required environmental settings such as plenty of oxygen, warm temperatures, and moisture. This ensures that compostable plastic decomposes within a set period established by compostability rules.
On the other hand, since biodegradable plastic is not necessarily compostable, it is not allowed into composting facilities. Its decomposition should only be confined to natural surroundings. The time it will take to decompose will vary depending on the material it is made of and the environment.
The most important part is that compostable products are the only ones accepted by the compostable product industry and should be considered the only eco-friendly solution.
Biodegradable Product Institute (BPI) certification
BPI certification is the North American certification of compostability. For the product to be BPI certified, it has to meet ASTM D6400 compostability standard. If the product meets ASTM standards and receives BPI certification, it becomes certified compostable. Such standards provide scientific proof that this type of product can decompose in a compost facility within a certain time without harming the compost quality. These products usually have printed logos on them, which informs the consumer that the compostable plastic is indeed BPI certified.
The good news is that most of compostable products produced by BioFlexx have been certified by Biodegradable Product Institute. For confirmation, click here.
Why Choose Compostable Products from BioFlexx?
At BioFlexx, we offer a wide range of BPI-certified compostable products that meet the ASTM D6400 compostability standard.
Our main BPI certified product lines include:
We focus on supplying safe, sustainable compostable products to your business.
Contact us now for a quote or any other inquiries about our products.
Final Thought
While compostable and biodegradable plastic may appear similar, they differ based on various aspects like the decomposition process and whether the final substance is organic or not. BPI certification is the extra guarantee that compostable product meets the ASTM D6400 standard for North America. These factors ensure that compostable plastic will turn into productive soil and can be used to fertilize your lawns and gardens without harming the ecosystem.
In contrast, biodegradable products are not regulated and are not certified by Biodegradable Product Institute or meet ASTM compostability standards. In fact, biodegradable products may break down into smaller inorganic plastic particles, harming the environment.
Need to shift to alternative greener compostable products? If yes, kindly reach out to us at Bioflexx for environmentally friendly compostable products. Together, let’s go green!