Do you need compostable bags for your kitchen waste?

If you’re in the habit of saving your kitchen food scraps for composting, considering the use of lined bags labeled as compostable or biodegradable may seem like a practical way to maintain a clean kitchen bucket while transporting your vegetable peelings and coffee grounds to your compost pile or municipal collection bin.

Understanding compost bin liners is crucial, as, despite their compostable nature, they might pose more drawbacks than benefits. Discover more about the considerations surrounding these liners, why their compostable label doesn’t necessarily make them an ideal choice, and explore alternative methods to keep your kitchen organized without relying on them.

From this article we will learn:

1. What are compostable bags?
2. What are the benefits of using compostable bags for kitchen waste?
3. Can I put compostable bags in my kitchen trash can?
4. Can I put compostable bags in my home compost?
5. Can I compost so-called biodegradable plastic bags?
6. How to choose compostable bags for your kitchen

What are compostable bags?

Compostable bags may share a visual and tactile resemblance with petroleum-based plastic produce bags, but their composition sets them apart. Crafted from plant-based materials like vegetable starches, wood pulp, lactic acid, or soy proteins, these bags are intended to be eco-friendly alternatives.

They are designed to be consumed by microorganisms during the decomposition process, ultimately transforming into a soil-like organic substance known as compost.

The challenge arises from the fact that not all composting systems provide the optimal conditions for these bags to completely break down. Generally, only municipal or commercial composting facilities, as opposed to home composting setups, generate the requisite combination of heat, moisture, and airflow for thorough decomposition.

It’s worth noting, however, that these facilities can vary in their capabilities. Therefore, even if your food scraps are destined for off-site composting, compostable bags may still be restricted or prohibited, adding another layer of complexity to their use.

What are the benefits of using compostable bags for kitchen waste?

Using compostable bags for kitchen waste offers several environmental and practical benefits:

Reduced Plastic Pollution:

Compostable bags, unlike traditional plastic bags, break down into natural elements, minimizing the environmental impact of plastic pollution. This helps reduce the burden on landfills and ecosystems.

Contribution to the Composting Process:

Compostable bags facilitate the composting process by providing a container for organic waste. They break down along with the waste, contributing to the creation of nutrient-rich compost that can be used to enhance soil fertility.

Reduction of Greenhouse Gas Emissions:

When organic waste breaks down in landfills, it produces methane, a potent greenhouse gas. Composting, facilitated by compostable bags, helps reduce methane emissions by creating a controlled decomposition environment.

Convenient Disposal Options:

Compostable bags offer a convenient way to collect and dispose of kitchen waste. They can be placed directly into compost bins or collection programs, simplifying the waste management process.

Can I put compostable bags in my kitchen trash can?

The landscape varies, much like the distinct recycling regulations that define each town. Similarly, composting systems exhibit diversity in their capacity to accommodate either compostable or non-compostable bags.

Take, for instance, the New York City Department of Sanitation’s initiative to revitalize its food-waste pickup program in Queens. Here, residents are permitted to dispose of food scraps in collection bins using conventional plastic grocery bags—despite their environmentally unfriendly nature—only to have them later sifted out.

To navigate this nuanced terrain, your key action should involve confirming the specific guidelines set by your municipal collection, compost drop-off, or private composting service regarding accepted and prohibited materials. Precision in adhering to these guidelines is paramount.

If you find yourself in the fortunate position of being able to use compostable bags, seek those adorned with the Biodegradable Products Institute (BPI) logo. This not-for-profit organization issues a widely recognized compostability certification, deemed the gold standard in the US.

The certification, rooted in part in ASTM International compostability standards, ensures that an item breaks down swiftly, completely, and safely when processed in well-managed municipal and commercial facilities.

Notably, it also bars the inclusion of per and polyfluorinated substances (PFAS), which are sometimes utilized in packaging and have the potential to endure in the environment for an extended period. You can verify an item’s BPI certification on their website, providing an additional layer of assurance in your sustainable choices.

Can I put compostable bags in my home compost?

While compostable bags are designed to break down, the suitability of placing them in your home compost depends on various factors. In general, compostable bags may not fully decompose in typical home composting setups, which often lack the necessary conditions such as high temperatures, proper moisture levels, and sufficient aeration.

For effective composting, municipal or commercial composting facilities are better equipped as they can provide the ideal environment for the bags to break down completely. These facilities generate the necessary heat, moisture, and aeration required for efficient decomposition.

If you are uncertain about whether to include compostable bags in your home compost, it is advisable to check with your local composting guidelines or facility. Some compostable bags may be suitable for home composting, but it’s crucial to ensure they meet the specific requirements outlined by your composting system.

In summary, while compostable bags are designed for eco-friendly disposal, their compatibility with home composting depends on the specific conditions of your composting setup. Always verify guidelines and recommendations from your local composting authority to make informed decisions about compostable bag disposal.

Can I compost so-called biodegradable plastic bags?

The composting of so-called biodegradable plastic bags is not straightforward and requires careful consideration. While these bags are designed to break down more readily than traditional plastic, the term “biodegradable” can be misleading. In many cases, these bags may not fully decompose in standard home composting systems, which often lack the optimal conditions for efficient breakdown, such as high temperatures and proper aeration.

Biodegradable plastic bags are often better suited for industrial composting facilities where conditions can be controlled to facilitate their decomposition. These facilities typically have the necessary infrastructure to manage the higher temperatures and provide the required microbial activity for effective breakdown.

If you’re contemplating composting biodegradable plastic bags, it’s crucial to check with your local composting guidelines or facility. Some facilities may accept these bags, while others may not. In some instances, these bags may need specialized composting conditions that are not met in standard home compost setups.

In summary, composting so-called biodegradable plastic bags is contingent on the specific guidelines of your composting system. Always consult with your local composting authority to determine the most environmentally responsible way to dispose of these bags in your area.

How to choose compostable bags for your kitchen

Selecting the right compostable bags for your kitchen involves considering several factors to ensure both functionality and environmental responsibility. Here’s a guide to help you make an informed choice:

Certification:

Look for compostable bags with certification from reputable organizations like the Biodegradable Products Institute (BPI). BPI certification ensures that the bags meet specific compostability standards, assuring you of their eco-friendly attributes.

Material Composition:

Examine the materials used in the compostable bags. They are typically made from plant-based sources like vegetable starch, wood pulp, lactic acid, or soy proteins. Ensure the materials are sustainable and derived from renewable resources.

ASTM International Standards:

Check if the compostable bags adhere to ASTM International standards. These standards ensure that the bags break down efficiently, completely, and safely when subjected to composting in well-managed facilities.

Size and Thickness:

Consider the size and thickness of the bags based on your kitchen waste volume. Ensure they are suitable for your compost bin and can effectively contain your organic waste without compromising on strength.