Compostable Bioplastics Packaging

What Are Compostable Bioplastics?

Compostable bioplastics are plant-based alternatives to traditional plastic designed to fully break down in composting environments. Unlike regular bioplastics (which aren’t always compostable), these are formulated to degrade into water, CO₂, and organic matter without leaving microplastics behind.

They’re often made from materials like cornstarch, cassava root, or sugarcane, and used to create packaging that looks and feels like plastic, but acts more like nature when disposed of properly.

How Are They Made?

Compostable bioplastics are created by extracting starches or sugars from crops like corn, then converting those sugars into polymers such as PLA (polylactic acid) or PBAT (polybutylene adipate terephthalate). These polymers are then molded, extruded, or cast into films, containers, or rigid shapes.

They’re designed to meet compostability standards (like ASTM D6400 or EN 13432), meaning they’ll degrade within a specific time frame, usually under industrial composting conditions.

Why Does It Matter?

Unlike traditional plastics, compostable bioplastics are meant to return to the earth, not pollute it. While they require proper composting systems to fully break down, they offer a massive improvement over petroleum-based plastic in terms of carbon footprint, toxicity, and waste management.

For brands trying to balance performance with planet, compostable bioplastics offer a transitional material that works well in current packaging systems, but with a better end-of-life story.

Best Use Case:
Takeout containers, flexible packaging, cups, utensils, mailers, and wraps, especially for food and lifestyle brands prioritizing lower-impact disposables.

Eco-Benefits:

• Made from renewable, non-toxic resources

• Breaks down in 90–180 days in industrial compost (some home-compostable options exist)

• No microplastic pollution

• Lower emissions and energy use than conventional plastics

Printing Capabilities:
Excellent. Compostable bioplastics can be flexographically or digitally printed using certified compost-safe inks, offering vibrant, full-color branding without compromising compostability.