We’re facing a global plastic pollution crisis where a whopping 91% of plastic isn’t recycled (source). Enter PLA (short for polylactic acid). PLA is a bioplastic made from plant-based resources, typically fermented plant starch like corn, cassava and sugarcane. Better yet, PLA can be sent to a commercial compost facility so it’s suitable to mix with food waste.
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BioPak PLA bioplastic products are certified industrially compostable to Australian and European Standards (AS4736, EN13432) |
BioPak PLA bioplastic packaging is made from renewable resources: plants, not oil. |
There are many benefits to bioplastics as they offer a more environmentally friendly solution to conventional plastic. They’re made from renewable resources, have a lower carbon footprint and require less energy.
But there are some disadvantages of bioplastics and PLA. For starters, PLA packaging is often more expensive than conventional plastic (at least for now). It’s also certified commercially compostable (AS4736) but not certified home compostable (AS5810). This means the conditions and temperature of home composts will not break down PLA bioplastics.
In saying that, as technology evolves we hope to see bioplastic transform into a fully home compostable resource. NatureWorks (world-leading biopolymers supplier) is getting close to a breakthrough with the incorporation of polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) with PLA. PHA may be the future of bioplastic — a tough, durable and potentially home compostable product. Watch this space.
Unfortunately, greenwashing is rife in the sustainable packaging industry. Claims like “compostable”, “recyclable” and “biodegradable” can mislead and confuse. Here’s what you need to remember about these claims.
Look for the home compostable logo on the product, and more importantly, the company’s specific licence number (this can be verified in the Australian Bioplastics Association database).
Remember, to “adhere” to compostability standards is not the same as being certified.
Check for the logo above in your packaging and verify its recyclability at Australasian Recycling Label (ARL).
Everything ‘biodegrades’ eventually. Check the time it will take for the product to biodegrade. Will it take a year or 500 years? It’s time we demand transparency from the manufacturers.
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PLA bioplastic is made from rapidly renewable plant starch. |
PET plastic is made using finite fossil resources. |
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BioPak PLA bioplastic is certified industrially compostable to Australian and European standards. |
PET is recyclable, but only 31% of all plastic is recycled in Australia, and most of this is plastic bottles. |
The industrial compostable certification logo verifies a product’s claim of compostability.
This certification indicates the composting type and applicable region. To display the logo, materials must pass strict AS4736 tests at labs accredited by the Australian Bioplastic Association (ABA).
The unique licence numbers show that a specific business’ product range has passed the testing for compostability. You can search for the numbers on the ABA database.
Which is better for the environment, composting or recycling?
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Are plant-based bioplastics really better for the environment?
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PLA bioplastic is made from plant-based resources like corn, cassava and sugarcane.
Learn moreLet’s dig into the truth about home compostable cups, and how you, as the consumer, can avoid greenwashing.
Compost Connect is a not-for-profit platform connecting businesses to compost pick up services. Search your postcode to find out if compost collection is available in your area.
By joining Compost Connect, you’ll be diverting waste from landfill, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, showing your commitment to environmental sustainability, and turning your food and packaging waste into nutrient-rich compost!
