Separating Fact from Fiction: The Real Impact of Compostable Packaging
As the discussion around compostable packaging intensifies in Australia, several states, such as New South Wales and Victoria, and numerous local councils are moving to limit or ban these products from organic waste recovery programs. These decisions often stem from concerns about potential “risks” and “uncertainties.” But does scientific evidence support these fears, or do misunderstandings largely influence them?
Compostable packaging has been carefully engineered over many years to support the circular economy, reduce landfill waste, and enhance the recovery of food and garden organics. Yet, broad restrictions on these eco-friendly materials could slow down Australia’s progress in improving sustainable waste management, leading to increased landfill volumes, contamination in organic streams, and reduced recovery efficiency.
In this article, we address the common misconceptions about compostable packaging, presenting solid scientific insights to clarify its essential role and benefits. Discover why decisions based on thorough research are crucial for advancing Australia’s sustainability targets.
What Does Science Say About Certified Compostable Packaging?
Are certified compostable products genuinely problematic for organic waste recovery, or are these concerns based on incomplete information? The Australasian Bioplastics Association (ABA) commissioned a detailed review titled “Benefits and risks of certified compostable packaging in organic recovery systems,” led by Bill Grant from Federation University’s Future Regions Research Centre. This study critically examines the NSW EPA’s claims that led to bans on compostable packaging in Food Organics and Garden Organics (FOGO) programs.
The research assessed:
The overall environmental and social advantages of processing fibre-based and bioplastic compostables through FOGO services
The effectiveness of managing any associated risks
Key Takeaways from the Research
Products certified to meet Australian standards AS4736 and AS5810, along with ABA’s certification criteria, show minimal risk when processed through commercial composting systems. In fact, they can improve the volume and quality of organic waste recovered in FO and FOGO programs. When combined with clear community education and effective contamination control at composting facilities, the risk of compost contamination is significantly reduced.
Concerns about chemical pollution, microplastic residue, or toxicity linked to certified compostable packaging are not supported by current evidence.
You can explore our range of certified compostable packaging products here.
Debunking Contamination Concerns
The NSW EPA’s reports on contamination risk focus on limited examples—mostly non-certified or non-compostable plastics—and omit fibre-based products that comprise a large portion of certified compostables.
Highlights from the review include:
No Major Contamination Threats: ABA-certified products comply with rigorous standards and do not pose lasting chemical or ecological harm when composted. Residual bioplastics break down completely over time, preventing microplastic buildup in soil.
PFAS Contamination Risks Are Decreasing: Many manufacturers are phasing out PFAS chemicals voluntarily, and upcoming 2025 bans will accelerate this trend. ABA certification ensures PFAS is never added intentionally.
Microplastics Do Not Persist: Compostable plastics certified by ABA almost entirely degrade during composting, with any leftovers continuing to biodegrade without harming the environment.
Learn more about contamination management in our Resource Centre.
How Organics Processing Facilities Manage Compostable Packaging
Effective processing centres apply technology, manual sorting, and clear protocols to separate non-compostable materials and properly handle certified compostables. Local councils and businesses can contract composters equipped with suitable facilities to ensure certified compostable packaging is processed correctly.
For example, excluding short-cycle organic processors from FO and FOGO programs helps maintain compost quality and reduce contamination risks.
Addressing Lookalike Packaging: The Need for Regulation and Education
A significant challenge is the market presence of non-compostable products that closely resemble certified compostable items. This “lookalike” packaging causes confusion and contamination in organic waste streams.
To tackle this:
Clear regulations are necessary to define packaging design and labelling standards, distinguishing certified compostables from others.
Public education campaigns are vital so that consumers and businesses can confidently identify certified products and dispose of them correctly.
Visit our resource centre for tips on recognising and disposing of compostable packaging.
Compostable Packaging and the Circular Economy: The Bigger Picture
Some critics argue compostable packaging conflicts with circular economy principles. However, this view overlooks several crucial benefits:
Boosting Organic Waste Capture: Certified compostable products help keep food scraps out of landfill and recycling contamination streams.
Soil Health Improvement: Compost from FOGO programs enriches soils with essential nutrients and carbon, supporting sustainable agriculture and reducing reliance on synthetic fertilisers.
Reducing Fossil Plastic Contamination: Using compostable materials lowers contamination risks in both recycling and composting systems.
Renewable Material Use: Made primarily from renewable agricultural residues, compostable packaging reduces dependence on fossil-based plastics.
Discover our eco-friendly packaging, crafted from renewable materials.
The Future of FOGO Depends on Informed Decisions
The goal of Food Organics and Garden Organics (FOGO) services is to divert organic waste from landfill, cut greenhouse gas emissions, and produce nutrient-rich compost — all fundamental to a circular economy.
Policies based on misunderstandings about compostable packaging threaten these goals. Yet, international examples—from Italy to South Australia—demonstrate the positive impact of integrating certified compostable products into organic waste streams.
Six Ways to Support Compostable Packaging in Organic Waste Systems
To fully realise compostable packaging’s benefits within FOGO, we recommend:
Stricter Certification Enforcement: Only accept ABA-certified products in organic waste programs.
Better Community Education: Clear and consistent messaging on what belongs in FO and FOGO bins.
Investment in Composting Infrastructure: Build facilities with advanced sorting and processing capabilities.
Ongoing Testing: Monitor packaging and compost outputs to ensure safety and compliance.
Incentives for Businesses: Encourage the use of compostable packaging through subsidies and grants.
Collaboration with Research: Partner with universities and industry experts to innovate compostable technologies.
Find solutions and packaging that support your zero waste initiatives.
Why Excluding Compostable Packaging Is a Step Backwards
Rejecting certified compostable packaging could lead to:
Increased organic waste ending up in landfill, raising emissions and wasting valuable resources
Slowed growth and innovation in sustainable packaging industries, limiting green jobs and export potential
Missed opportunities to educate the public on responsible waste management and circular practices
The Time to Act Is Now
By embracing certified compostable packaging through smart regulation and community education, Australia can accelerate its transition toward effective organic waste recovery and a healthier environment.
Discover our comprehensive product range and join us in creating a truly circular economy.
