When dealing with biodegradable bags, especially those specifically marked as compostable or industrial compostable, the approach to disposal is different from traditional recycling. According to the provided information, these particular types of bags should not be recycled through standard methods or placed in home compost bins.
Understanding Biodegradable Bag Disposal
It's important to differentiate between various types of biodegradable bags and their intended end-of-life solutions. The reference specifically addresses bags marked for composting.
Why Not Home Compost Biodegradable Bags?
- Specific Conditions Required: Biodegradable plastics marked as being compostable or industrial compostable are engineered to break down under very specific conditions. These conditions, such as high temperatures, specific moisture levels, and microbial activity, are typically only found in controlled industrial composting facilities.
- Inefficient Breakdown: Placing these bags in a home compost bin will likely result in them not breaking down properly or within a reasonable timeframe. This can contaminate your compost pile and leave visible plastic fragments.
Industrial Composting vs. Home Composting
| Feature | Home Composting | Industrial Composting |
|---|---|---|
| Scale | Small scale | Large scale |
| Temperature | Varies, typically lower | Consistently high temperatures |
| Moisture Control | Less controlled | Highly controlled |
| Aeration | Less intensive | Highly controlled and optimized |
| Materials | Food scraps, yard waste, paper | Food scraps, yard waste, approved bioplastics |
| Breakdown Time | Slower for complex materials | Faster, designed for certified items |
As the reference states, "These items are designed to break down only in the conditions found in industrial composting facilities."
How to Dispose of Certified Biodegradable Bags
Based on the provided reference, if your biodegradable bag is marked as compostable or industrial compostable:
- Do NOT home compost them.
- Do NOT place them in standard recycling bins (like plastic recycling).
- These items should be placed in the residual waste bin.
Putting these specific types of biodegradable bags in your residual waste bin ensures they are handled according to the recommended disposal method when industrial composting facilities are not locally available or accessible through specific collection schemes. While this might lead to landfill or incineration, it is the recommended pathway according to the given guidance for these specific materials when industrial composting is not an option.
In summary, for biodegradable bags marked for composting, the correct disposal method, based on the reference, is placing them in your residual waste bin.
