The Complete Guide to Compostable Packaging

Certified Compostable Packaging is a revolutionary solution that not only helps reduce waste but also promotes a sustainable future. Brands across many industries can make a positive impact by choosing Compostable Packaging for food, clothing, mailers, and more.

Why Compostable Packaging Matters

Choosing sustainable packaging can transform how your customers perceive your brand. On this page, we’ll explore everything you need to know about compostable packaging, including:

What Does It Mean to be Compostable?

The Benefits of Compostable Materials

How to Produce Compostable Packaging

The Process of Composting

Types of Compostable Packaging Available

BPI Certifications & Regulatory Compliance

Starting a Sustainable Packaging Project

What Does it Mean to be Compostable?

Compostable materials break down completely into non-toxic components that nourish the soil. When placed in the right composting conditions, Compostable Packaging transforms into water, carbon dioxide, and biomass. This supports sustainability by reducing landfill waste and limiting pollution.

In simple terms, Compostable materials help the environment by returning nutrients to the earth.

Elk Packaging: Committed to Deep Green Solutions

We offer BPI-certified options for customers seeking the most sustainable packaging available.

Choosing Sustainability

Brands that use eco-friendly packaging show a commitment to protecting the environment and value the planet’s future. shows brand leadership in the space.

Regulatory Changes

New regulatory laws will soon require brands to consider Certified Compostable or similar options. Get ahead of the curve now to show brand leadership and convey your values to customers.

Are there Benefits to Packaging with Compostable Materials?

Packaging with Compostable materials can help people and the environment, while also helping businesses meet sustainability goals. Consumers increasingly expect the most sustainable option for packaging, especially in crowded categories. This leadership opportunity is a meaningful and exciting way to spotlight your brand's real dedication to actual change.

Here are a few key reasons for brands to choose Compostable Packaging:

Improved Environmental Impact

Compostable materials help reduce the need for landfills by turning food waste into soil, which benefits the environment.

Less Pollution

Compostable Packaging has a smaller carbon footprint than regular plastics, resulting in fewer greenhouse gas emissions.

Consumer Appeal

Compostable Packaging is no longer just a feel-good option for consumers. Eco-friendly packaging is essential for younger consumers who prioritize the environment when shopping.

The Law of Packaging Specifications

Many states, including California, Maine, Minnesota, Oregon, and Colorado, have passed laws requiring single-use packaging to be Certified Compostable.

How is Compostable Packaging Produced?

Compostable Packaging companies create non-toxic materials from plant-based polymers, cornstarch, or cellulose. We choose these raw materials because they decompose naturally and enrich the soil without leaving harmful residues.

The raw materials then go through a transformation process. For example, cornstarch turns into polylactic acid (PLA), a common Compostable bioplastic.

Once the Compostable material is ready, manufacturers shape it into various forms of packaging. This includes biodegradable films, wrappers, adhesives, inks, and coatings, which are all Compostable.

The production of Compostable Packaging often embraces sustainable practices. Manufacturers may use renewable energy sources and minimize waste, further enhancing the packaging’s environmental benefits.

Several types of materials make up Compostable Packaging:

Plant-Based Plastics (PLA):

Derived from renewable resources like corn starch, these materials offer a clear, sturdy alternative to traditional plastics

Bagasse:

A byproduct of sugarcane processing, ideal for containers and packaging because of its durability.

Molded Fiber:

Made from recycled paper or cardboard, robust and fully Compostable.

Kraft Paper:

This natural, unbleached paper is perfect for wrapping, bags, and boxes, making it an environmentally friendly choice.

Made Close to Home

We produce our Compostable Packaging in North America, ensuring a short and efficient supply chain.

Experience Gets the Job Done

Our 15+ years of sustainability experience puts our technical team ahead of the pack in execution and innovation. With each project we commit to learning and evolving; it's our favorite part of the process.

How is the Packaging Material Composted?

Compostable Packaging breaks down in industrial composting facilities or in-home composting systems. Independent testers verify that Certified Compostable Packaging breaks down to the ASTM D6400 Compostable standard. This means the materials will disintegrate, bio-degrade, and pass eco-toxicity and heavy metal testing.

Here's a closer look at the breakdown process:

Microbial Activity:

At the heart of composting is the action of microbes such as bacteria and fungi. They feast on the organic components, breaking down complex materials into simpler substances.

Heat Production:

As microbes digest the Compostable material, they generate heat. This heat is crucial as it speeds up the breakdown and helps kill off any harmful pathogens.

Moisture Levels:

Adequate moisture is essential to keep the microbes active. Not enough water can make composting slow, but too much can create conditions that are not good for composting.

Time Factor:

The time it takes for Compostable Packaging to break down can vary. Under industrial conditions, it can take as little as a few weeks. A certified Compostable product will break down within 180 days into pieces 2mm or less.

What Type of Packaging is Available in Compostable Materials?

Compostable Packaging is a great choice for many brands and industries. We've created Compostable coffee bags, Compostable labels, Compostable mailers, Compostable bakery packaging, Compostable clothing packaging, and more for our customers. New advances mean Compostable Packaging can be clear and show off the product inside.

Each of these packaging formats serves a specific purpose, catering to different product needs.

Compostable Flexible Roll-stock Film

Ideal for automated packaging solutions and fits various shapes and sizes. Applications include fully customizable and high barrier tea overwraps, energy bar wrappers, small snack packs, protein powder sachets, single-serve units and more!

Learn more

Compostable Three-side Seal Pouch

Offers excellent protection for compostable food packaging, ensuring freshness and reducing waste. Compostable pouches are a great fit for frozen foods, shelf stable snacks, refill bags for E-commerce and more!

Learn more

Compostable Gusset Bags and Bar Wrappers

Versatile options often used in the food industry, particularly for snacks and confections. Their ability to stand upright makes them highly convenient for retail displays.

Learn more

Compostable Sachets

Perfect for single-use items like condiments and samples, offering an eco-friendly solution without compromising on functionality.

Learn more

Things Your Brand Should Know About BPI Certifications & Legal Requirements for Compostable Packaging

Understanding BPI certifications and legal requirements is vital for your brand’s credibility and compliance. The Biodegradable Products Institute (BPI) certification ensures that packaging is Compostable in commercial composting facilities, adhering to industry standards.

Achieving BPI Certification

To receive BPI certification, your packaging material must completely break down in a composting environment. It should break down safely and quickly without leaving any harmful residue.

The Legal Aspects of Compostable Packaging

Depending on the industry and product, brands follow specific guidelines when choosing packaging. Compostable Packaging must meet specific standards, such as ASTM D6400 or EN 13432. Certified and legally compliant Compostable Packaging will not only strengthen your brand’s reputation but also align with environmental responsibility goals.

How to Start a Sustainable Packaging Project

Maybe you're an established brand looking to transition from legacy films to a Compostable Packaging product. Or perhaps you represent a new brand looking to launch for the first time. No matter how long you've been in the business, our role is to guide the process every step of the way.

We'll walk you through materials selection, defining specifications, testing, and the launch phase. With 15+ years spanning numerous categories and complexities, we have the expertise you need to complete your packaging project.

Here are the main stages of completing a Compostable Packaging project:

Determine Product Needs

We offer BPI-certified options for customers seeking the most sustainable packaging available.

Complete Material Selection

Next, we will conduct various tests to ensure that we pair the product with the correct material. We will test how well your equipment packs and fills Compostable Packaging. Testing for shelf life and quality will also be brand-led to ensure that Compostable Packaging is a fit. We will continue to innovate until you are completely satisfied with the result.

Launch Time

Once we meet all specifications, we'll move into the final artwork and scale up the packaging production phase.

Packaging Formats

Gusseted Stand-Up Pouch, 2 or 3 Side Seal, Wrappers/Rollstock

Available Gauges

0.8 to 3.2 mil
OTR Film Barrier = 0.50
MVTR Film Barrier= 0.08

Finishing Options

Matte Coating, Spot Gloss, Window, with Zip-locks in Development

Appropriate Products

Single Serve Items, Tea, Snacks, Energy Bars, Chocolate, Frozen Foods

Compliance

SB 54 is a landmark packaging law that requires 100% of packaging in the state of California to be recyclable or compostable by 2032. This means a 25% cut in plastic packaging and 65% of all single-use plastic packaging must be recycled.

Packaging Awards

Elk Packaging has achieved significant recognition in the field of packaging innovation, as evidenced by our multiple awards and accolades.

Ellen MacArthur Foundation - ELK Packaging

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