14/05/2026
“Biodegradable” and “Compostable” are often used interchangeably in packaging, but they are not the same.
Biodegradable materials can break down over time, while compostable materials must meet more specific conditions related to degradation speed, residue control, and composting standards.
In many compostability tests, materials are also evaluated for heavy metal limits, plant growth impact, and soil compatibility after decomposition.
In packaging discussions, the terms “biodegradable” and “compostable” are often used interchangeably. However, they do not always describe the same material behavior. For packaging buyers and converters, the difference also affects material selection and disposal requirements. It also affect...