Compostables have a role to play in reducing plastic pollution and supporting food waste recycling, when well-designed, clearly labelled, and supported by the right waste infrastructure.
Our latest guidance helps packaging professionals cut through the complexity and make evidence-based decisions about when to use compostable plastic packaging and when not to.
What you'll learn
- Clear definitions: what “compostable” really means
- Certified standards for home and industrial composting
- A practical decision tree to guide application choices
- Insights on labelling, communication, and collection systems
- A breakdown of relevant UK, EU, and global policy changes
- Guidance to help avoid greenwashing and improve recyclability.
Why it matters
Less than 1% of UK packaging is compostable today - but used strategically, it can help capture food waste more effectively and reduce plastic contamination in compost. With regulations tightening and sustainability claims under more scrutiny, clarity and evidence are essential for responsible packaging design.
Who should read this report
- Packaging designers
- Manufacturers and material suppliers
- Sustainability and compliance leads
- Local authorities and waste management professionals.
Download files
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Considerations for Compostable Plastic Packaging
PDF, 21.75 MB
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