In a world where sustainability is more important than ever, many shoppers are turning to “eco-friendly” plastics as a greener alternative. But with so many labels—biodegradable, compostable, plant-based, and earth-safe—it’s easy to get lost in the marketing. At Compost Crew, we’ve helped thousands of residents and businesses reduce waste and turn food scraps into nutrient-rich compost. Through our online store, Key Compostables, we’re making it easier than ever to shop confidently for certified compostable products.
Let’s sift through the options…
Beware of Greenwashing
Are you drawn to packaging that emphasizes the color green for the product or label or even uses recycled cardboard packaging? Unfortunately, this marketing tactic uses misleading environmental claims to appeal to conscious consumers. Many products use words like “biodegradable” or “compostable” to define the end-of-life for their product but this doesn’t tell the full story. Learning to read between the lines is key. Next time you shop, don’t just trust the color or punchlines. Look for credible certifications or clear disposal instructions.
What does “biodegradable” really mean?
Biodegradable means that, like most objects, they will eventually break down but that doesn’t tell you how long it takes or what’s left behind. Specific conditions like high heat, moisture, oxygen needed to break down are rarely met in nature or landfill. Of course, items like food and leaves are considered biodegradable and can be added to your compost bin or pile, but there are labels that muddle biodegradation with decomposition. Let’s use a paper milk carton as an example! While paper is biodegradable, paper products like milk cartons are coated with a petroleum or plastic-based lining that could take approximately 5 years to decompose. When these products do finally break down, they likely leave traces of microplastics that are harmful to organisms that may ingest them. If your goal is to reduce waste and protect the environment, look for products labeled certified compostable—they’re tested to break down safely and completely.
The label says “compostable”
Compostable products will only break down under specific conditions. At Compost Crew, our Compost Outpost sites across the D.C. metro area create the perfect environment for this process—balancing heat, moisture, and aeration to break down compostable materials efficiently. Some compostable products can even break down in your backyard compost pile, but only if they’re certified for that use, while most certified compostables will easily break down at commercial facilities.
The term “compostable” may be used loosely in marketing. When shopping for compostable products, check for a seal of approval. Trusted third-party certifications confirm that a product has been tested and proven to break down safely and completely in the right composting environment without releasing toxins or PFAS (polyfluoroalkyl substances)—harmful “forever chemicals” that can contaminate compost.
- BPI (Biodegradable Products Institute)
- TÜV Austria
You can research products directly at bpiworld.org, or save time by shopping at Key Compostables—your one-stop shop for certified compostable products.
Home vs. Commercial Composting
Not all compostables are created equal. The key difference lies in where they can successfully break down:
Home or Backyard Compostable
Certified to break down in a backyard compost pile without specialized equipment. Look for items like bamboo cutlery or uncoated plates and bowls.
Commercially Compostable
These products require higher heat and specific conditions found in commercial composting facilities. Great examples include liners, cutlery, and clear cups. There are even hot cups lined with PLA, a plant-based plastic lining that keeps your cup waterproof and warm!
Knowing the difference helps ensure your good intentions don’t go to waste—literally! Make smarter, more sustainable choices by checking the label—or make it simple by buying from a source you can trust. At Compost Crew, we’re proud to close the loop: collecting your food scraps, turning them into compost, and now offering compostable products that keep your waste stream clean. Visit keycompostables.com to explore our growing selection of certified compostable products—perfect for homes, restaurants, offices, and community events anywhere we ship!
