Corn starch packaging should be disposed of in a dedicated bin for commercial composting facilities, as it's generally unsuitable for home composting.
Here's a more detailed explanation:
Why Can't I Compost Corn Starch Packaging at Home?
Although corn starch packaging is compostable in theory, several factors make it difficult to break down properly in a typical home compost setup:
- Temperature: Commercial composting facilities reach much higher temperatures than home compost bins. These higher temperatures are necessary to effectively break down corn starch plastics.
- Process Control: Commercial facilities carefully manage moisture, aeration, and other factors to optimize the composting process. Home composts often lack this precise control.
- Volume: Commercial facilities handle large volumes of organic waste, which helps to maintain consistent composting conditions.
Proper Disposal of Corn Starch Packaging
The best way to handle corn starch packaging is to look for dedicated collection bins. Here's what you should do:
- Check for Composting Bins: Look for designated bins specifically for compostable plastics, often labeled for "commercial composting" or "industrial composting." These bins are typically found in public spaces or at events committed to sustainable practices.
- Avoid Home Composting: Do not place corn starch packaging in your home compost bin or backyard compost pile. It is unlikely to break down properly and may contaminate your compost.
- No Recycling: Corn starch packaging is not recyclable in standard plastic recycling streams. Placing it in the recycling bin can disrupt the recycling process.
- Landfill as Last Resort: If no commercial composting option is available, the last resort is to dispose of the packaging in the regular trash, which will likely end up in a landfill.
Summary
Dispose of corn starch packaging in dedicated commercial composting bins whenever possible. Avoid home composting and recycling, as these methods are not suitable for this type of material. If no other options are available, discard it in the trash.
