Everything you need to know about compostable and biodegradable bin bags
Are biodegradable better than traditional black bin liners? What materials are they made from? Will they break down in a landfill? We get asked a fair few questions about our bin bags, so we have compiled all the frequently asked questions in one place.
What’s the difference between compostable bags and biodegradable bags?
Compostable bags are made from 100% plant-based materials, our Waste Not compostable caddy liners are made from 100% vegetable starch. Compostable bags also usually break down much quicker as long as they have enough heat. Not all biodegradable plastic is compostable, which is why you can’t use a biodegradable carrier bag to line your food caddy.
If bin bags are incinerated, what is the point of swapping from plastic?
When plastic bags are burnt, they release harmful toxic chemicals into the environment. Because our bin bags are compostable bin bags are compostable and biodegradable, they won’t release toxic chemicals when they are incinerated.
My council only accepts black bin bags.
Unfortunately, some councils only take black bin bags, why not petition your council? With enough support and demand your council will take action and change to accept eco-friendly bin bags.
If they’re sent to landfill, they won’t break down.
Our Ecozone bin liners are made from oxo-biodegradable plastic, when exposed to oxygen, the material will break down, even in landfill – if the conditions are right. Scientists aren’t certain how long it takes for oxo-biodegradable plastic to fully break down, but we do know that it’s a big reduction and can reduce the overall burden of plastic pollution.
Ultimately, our compostable bags should ideally be composted instead of sent to landfill or incineration. However, even if our bags aren’t composted and sent to landfill or incineration, they’re still a much better option than their plastic alternatives. These compostable bags are made from a renewable resource, rather than non-renewable petroleum-based plastic.
Why are they so expensive?
Unfortunately, the production costs of compostable bags are much higher than plastics due to lots of reasons such as (sadly) a lower demand, the amount of scientific research being done around them, and certifications (EU compostable, GMO free etc.) – whereas, plastic is cheap because the toxic, chemical ingredients are mass produced cheaply. However, if you join our Home Club you get the discounted prices and earn Planet Points on your purchases.
How long will the bin bags last (if unused)?
We recommend that you store the Waste Not compostable bin liners in a cool, dark, dry place, otherwise they will start to degrade and split. You must use your bags within 18 months of purchase and keep them out of sunlight and away from sources of heat and steam
