Sustainability is no longer just a trend; it’s a necessity for brands and consumers alike. With terms like recyclable, compostable, and sustainable frequently used on product packaging, it’s important to understand their true meanings.
In this article, we will break down the key definitions within the sustainable label category and explain how each term impacts brands and consumers. Whether you're a business looking to adopt greener packaging practices or a consumer trying to make more informed choices, this guide will help you navigate the complex world of sustainable packaging.
A sustainable label refers to packaging designed with environmental impact in mind, focusing on minimizing waste, reducing carbon footprint, and preserving resources for future generations. But sustainable packaging encompasses much more than just being “eco-friendly” and the actual impact of these efforts very widely, depending on materials and their use.
Below, we’ll explore the three major types of sustainability-related labels: recyclable, compostable, and biodegradable, and highlight the key differences between them.
Definition: Recyclable materials are those that can be collected and reprocessed into new products after their initial use. For example, materials like paper, glass, certain plastics (such as PET and HDPE), and metals are often recycled.
How It Works: When consumers dispose of recyclable packaging in appropriate recycling bins, these materials are transported to a recycling plant, sorted, and processed for reuse. However, recycling infrastructure varies widely across regions, which can cause confusion and reduce effectiveness.
Challenges: While recyclable labels might seem like the ideal solution, not all recyclable materials end up being recycled. In fact, studies show that consumer confusion about what is and isn't recyclable often leads to contamination in the recycling stream, making the entire batch unusable.
Definition: Compostable materials are designed to break down into non-toxic, organic matter under specific composting conditions, contributing valuable nutrients to the soil. These materials, such as PLA (polylactic acid) or paper products, are typically plant-based.
How It Works: When disposed of in industrial composting facilities (or sometimes even at-home compost systems), compostable labels and packaging decompose naturally, leaving no harmful residue behind. This reduces landfill waste and contributes to a circular waste system.
Challenges: One common misconception is that compostable products can break down in a regular landfill, but this is not always true. For successful decomposition, industrial composting conditions—controlled heat, moisture, and microbial activity—are often required. Compostable materials might not break down as intended without access to these facilities.
Definition of Biodegradable: Biodegradable packaging materials will naturally decompose over time with the help of microorganisms, but they don’t always leave behind beneficial organic material as compostable materials do. All compostable items are biodegradable, but not all biodegradable items are compostable.
How It Works: While biodegradable packaging breaks down in the natural environment, the timeframe and conditions for decomposition vary greatly depending on the material. For instance, some plastics labeled as biodegradable may take years to break down fully, contributing to pollution if not disposed of correctly.
Challenges: Biodegradable packaging can sometimes be misleading, as consumers assume it will break down in any environment. Unfortunately, some biodegradable materials still release harmful chemicals during degradation, especially when exposed to the wrong conditions.
Definition: Sustainable packaging goes beyond the material itself; it considers the product's entire life cycle—from raw material sourcing to end-of-life disposal. This means reducing overall environmental impact through responsible manufacturing practices, energy-efficient processes, and minimizing waste.
Key Features:
Challenges: While sustainable packaging is ideal for reducing environmental harm, the industry still faces hurdles in creating packaging that is both functional and eco-friendly. One example is balancing durability with recyclability; certain materials that are highly protective of the product may not be easily recyclable or compostable.
Recyclable: Materials that can be reprocessed and used to create new products after their initial life cycle.
Compostable: Materials that break down into organic matter in controlled composting environments, returning valuable nutrients to the earth.
Biodegradable: Materials that decompose naturally in the environment but not necessarily under controlled composting conditions.
Sustainable Packaging: Packaging designed with environmental impact in mind, prioritizing resource efficiency and long-term ecological benefits.
Circular Economy: A system of production and consumption that aims to minimize waste by keeping materials in use for as long as possible.
Post-Consumer Recycled (PCR) Material: Materials that have been used by consumers and collected for recycling, then used to create new products or packaging.
Eco-Friendly: A general term for products or practices that do not harm the environment.
As consumer demand for sustainable products grows, it's crucial for brands to be clear about their packaging choices. The PLPS team understands the critical differences between recyclable, compostable, biodegradable, and sustainable packaging options.
We are here to help you make informed decisions that align with your sustainability goals and effectively communicate your eco-friendly efforts to your customers.
Reach out to our team today to discuss your labeling needs or request samples of our sustainable packaging options.
