The "2023 Product Eco-responsibility (Amendment) Ordinance" regulating disposable plastic tableware and other plastic products will come into effect on April 22, 2024. The new legislation bans the sale of polystyrene foam and disposable plastic tableware, and prohibits their use for dine-in and takeaway services. Cotton buds, umbrella bags, and plastic toothpicks are also banned from being sold or provided for free.
Eco-friendly tableware is gaining more attention in the catering and hospitality industry, as it can reduce the environmental impact. However, while the terms "biodegradable" and "compostable" are closely related, they actually have different meanings. Many restaurant owners and procurement managers are often confused when purchasing these products.
This article will explain the differences between "biodegradable" and "compostable" tableware, in order to help businesses choose truly environmentally-friendly products when making procurement decisions.
Biodegradable Tableware
Biodegradable means that a material can be broken down into natural elements such as water, carbon dioxide, and organic matter through a biological decomposition process under natural conditions. These kinds of tableware can be broken down by microorganisms over a certain period of time, without causing long-term environmental pollution. However, not all biodegradable materials have the same decomposition rate and method.
Biodegradable tableware is typically made from natural materials such as plant fibers, corn starch, or sugarcane residues. The key point is that they can be broken down through natural biological processes, unlike conventional plastic products.
Compostable Tableware
Compostable tableware refers to items that can decompose into organic matter in a specific composting facility through natural processes. These facilities provide ideal temperature, moisture, and oxygen levels to facilitate effective decomposition. Unlike biodegradable tableware, compostable items require processing in dedicated composting facilities to achieve complete decomposition.
Compostable tableware is typically made from natural organic materials such as plant fibers, wood fibers, or sugarcane residues. The key distinction is that compostable products need to be processed in specialized composting environments, rather than just breaking down naturally over time.
What are the Differences?
Below are the explanations of "biodegradable" and "compostable" from two major international organizations:
While “biodegradable” and “compostable” may appear to be synonymous terms, there are important differences. While everything that is compostable is technically biodegradable, not everything that is biodegradable is compostable because there are specific third-party standards and time frames associated with compostability that do not exist for biodegradability. This becomes particularly important when the terms are used to describe the end of life attributes of products and packaging. https://bpiworld.org/
A biodegradable product may be broken down by microorganisms but this does not necessarily imply that the product can be converted into good quality compost.
Biodegradability and compostability rely heavily on the environment where the product is broken down. As each environment (compost, soil, water, …) has different temperatures and microorganisms, the speed of the biodegradation process may vary from one site to another.
For example, bioplastics which are biodegradable in an industrial composting plant (the most aggressive atmosphere regime) are not always biodegradable in water or soil, or even in a compost bin in the garden (owing to the lower temperatures). https://en.tuv.at/
Eco-friendly Tableware Sourcing Guide
Certification logos: Biodegradable tableware should comply with relevant certification standards, such as the US BPI certification or the European EN 13432 standard. Compostable tableware should meet the corresponding composting certification standards, such as the European OK Compost logo.
Supplier information: Ask the suppliers about the material composition and certification status of the products. They should be able to provide relevant documentation.
Product labels: Check the labels and promotional materials on the product packaging to ensure it clearly states whether the item is biodegradable or compostable.
Processing requirements: Be aware of the processing requirements for the products. Biodegradable tableware can decompose in the natural environment, but compostable tableware needs to be processed in specific composting facilities. For example, find out if the tableware can be sent to a government-collected location, a specific recycling bin, or disposed of with food waste for further processing.
Consulting professionals: If you have any doubts about the environmental performance of a product, you can consult environmental professionals or relevant organizations for their opinion.
Selecting truly green tableware is very important for the food and beverage industry, as it helps reduce environmental impact and meet relevant regulations. By verifying the certifications and processing requirements, you can have more confidence in choosing environmentally-friendly tableware and demonstrate your commitment to environmental protection to your customers.
For more information...
Green Tableware Sourcing Guide 2023
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