Compostable packaging has gained significant attention as a potential solution to the environmental challenges posed by single-use plastics. While it plays a crucial role in the concept of a circular economy, it is important that the initiative has to be supported by policy makers, businesses and consumers in general.
Single Use Plastic - A Growing Awareness
Effective as of July 1, 2022, the Central Government of India implemented a nationwide ban on 19 types of Single-Use Plastics (SUPs) across all states and Union territories. This action was taken in response to the harmful environmental effects associated with single-use plastic items. The banned SUP items include plastic stick earbuds, plastic balloon sticks, plastic flags, plastic candy sticks, plastic ice cream sticks, thermocol products, plastic cutlery, plastic cigarette packaging, plastic stirrers, and PVC banners with a thickness of less than 100 microns. Additionally, plastic bags with a thickness of less than 75 microns are prohibited, and non-woven bags with a weight below 60 GSM are also not allowed.
According to a recent report by Toxics Link, an environmental NGO focusing on Single-Use Plastic products, among the five cities included in the survey, Delhi exhibits the lowest compliance with the ban. The report notes that despite the regulations, Delhi continues to provide the banned items, with an alarming 88% usage rate, making it the worst offender. Gwalior follows closely with an 84% usage rate, while Mumbai and Guwahati report rates of 71% and 77%, respectively.
In 2018, Collins Dictionary designated 'single-use' as its word of the year, reflecting the world's increasing concern about plastic pollution. Single-use plastics have come to symbolize our linear take-make-waste economy.
The shift towards compostable products
Made from biodegradable materials that can return to the earth if managed properly, it appears to be an intuitive solution, particularly in the food and packaging industry. It has gained popularity due to growing global regulatory concerns, policies, and companies shifting their preference from plastic materials to bio-based alternatives. For instance, PVH, the worldwide fashion conglomerate that owns the Calvin Klein brand, recently pledged to achieve packaging composed entirely of sustainable and ethically sourced materials by 2025.
There are situations where well-designed compostable solutions seamlessly integrate into a circular economy, particularly when they return nutrients to the soil and contribute to regenerating soils, fostering a healthy food system. For instance, using compostable fruit stickers or seaweed sachets for sauce servings can prevent the contamination of organic materials and ensure their safe return to the soil.
The call for 'no excuse for single-use' has become increasingly common globally. Both businesses and consumers have the option to choose natural and biodegradable products, such as straws, plastic bags, disposable coffee cups, and takeaway containers, among others. This shift in behavior will contribute to reducing disposable plastic consumption.
Closed-loop systems, like those employed at festivals or sports events using compostable packaging, can gather uneaten food and scraps in a single bin for processing. This preserves food nutrients without contaminating the waste stream. Implementing collection services where companies both provide and collect compostable packaging can reduce contamination and guarantee that materials are circulated at their highest value.
Final note!
Compostable packaging is one of many solutions necessary to prevent waste, circulate materials, and regenerate nature. It is best suited for specific scenarios, particularly in food, drink, and packaging applications, where it can help increase the proportion of organic waste collected, treated, and recycled.
However, on a larger scale, to make it work effectively, it requires effective collaboration among all stakeholders, from policymakers and manufacturers to businesses and consumers.
