Whether you want to reflect the values of your customers, promote sustainability within your business or you’ve spotted a major opportunity for growth. Find out more about our compostable and biodegradable label range.
The terms biodegradable and compostable are often talked about as sustainable material alternatives, but what do they actually mean?
The terms biodegradable and compostable are often used interchangeably however they have distinct meanings. Biodegradable materials break down naturally under the action of microorganisms. There are no defined time limits for this, materials could take 6 weeks to biodegrade or 60 years to biodegrade. By contrast compostable materials decompose within a specified timeframe and under certain conditions. Compostable materials break down to help form compost which is used to fertilize and improve soil. Not all biodegradable materials will be compostable as the time needed for them to biodegrade may be outside the compostable criteria.
When can labels be described as compostable?
In order to claim compostability, label materials must meet the strict testing requirements of the European standard EN 13432. This standard ensures that compostable packaging materials breakdown via biodegradation and no harmful substances remain in the compost. Our OK Compost labels meet this standard and are approved for industrial composting.
What is industrial composting?
Industrial composting is different to a home composting bin, it is undertaken at a commercial facility under specific industrial conditions. Many local authorities provide collection and commercial composting schemes however not all do. Industrial processing is suitable to break down compostable bioplastics (plastic materials produced from renewable biomass sources such as corn starch) which includes bioplastic based labels
When should I use compostable labels?
The main application for compostable labels is the labeling of compostable food packaging and compostable plastic bags. Increasing bans on single use packaging has meant a drive towards compostable bags and packaging, many of which will require a compostable label.
Why should I use compostable labels?
The use of compostable packaging and labels can positively contribute to an increased collection of organic waste as food waste can be commingled with its packaging and labels. This helps divert organic waste out of landfills which reduces methane emissions produced in landfills. Our compostable label range can be industrially composted with food waste, where accepted.
We supply a range of biodegradable and compostable labels. For more information about compostable and biodegradable label options email us at info@labelmarket.co.uk or call us on 0800 169 1980