Sustainable v Compostable v Recyclable (Review)

When talking with customers like you, we are often asked about the differences between sustainable, compostable and recyclable. Well, the answer is very simple. In this article, you’ll discover the key differences which will enable you to make informed decisions on what packaging to use and what you feel is the best disposing method for your customers.

What does sustainable mean?

Sustainable is when paper is sourced from responsible forestry and ethical practices. It also means that the raw material is renewed at an equal rate to its consumption. Plantation forests are a good example of a sustainable paper source.

What does compostable mean?

There are 2 different variations of Compostable. Home Compostable and Commercially Compostable.

Home compostable is packaging that can be placed in home compost bins, but the time it takes to break down will depend on how well you tend your compost heap.

Commercially Compostable is packaging is suitable for treatment in a commercial facility where it will break down within 90 days as defined by EU standard EN13432. Treatment at a commercial composting facility means the products will be subjected to optimum amounts of sunlight, temperature and moisture to break down.

Any packaging that is classified as compostable should not be placed into regular kerbside recycling streams, however, some local areas now accept compostable products in organics waste collection bins. Please check with your local council.

What does recyclable mean?

A product or material is recyclable if it can be collected and re-manufactured into a new product. If a Berica product is listed as recyclable it means that that food packaging can be readily recycled via kerbside recycling streams once food residue has been removed.

Looking for eco-friendly food packaging to help your sustainable story? If so, contact us today.

Sustainable v Compostable v Recyclable (Review)

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