Compostable vs. Biodegradable: What’s the Difference and Why It Matters

Compostable and biodegradable labels appear everywhere, from packaging to straws to shopping bags. But these terms aren’t interchangeable, and understanding the difference is key to shopping sustainably.

Introduction: Why This Matters

Every purchase you make has an environmental impact. As sustainability becomes more important to consumers, companies are quick to market products as “biodegradable” or “compostable” to attract eco-conscious buyers. However, if we don’t understand what these terms truly mean, we risk contributing to the same waste problem we’re trying to solve.

In this blog, you’ll learn:

• What “compostable” truly means

• What “biodegradable” actually involves

• Which is better for the environment

• How to choose wisely when shopping for eco-friendly products

1. What Does Biodegradable Mean?

Biodegradable items break down naturally with the help of bacteria, fungi, or other microorganisms. However, there’s no set timeframe for how long this process takes—weeks, years, or even centuries.

Key Points:

• Definition: Biodegradable simply means the product will break down eventually.

• Timeframe: It could take days or decades depending on the material and conditions.

• Residue: Some biodegradable plastics break down into microplastics, which remain in soil and waterways.

Example Products:

• Biodegradable trash bags (often require industrial conditions to fully degrade)

• Plant-based utensils labeled as biodegradable

The Problem:

Many biodegradable products end up in landfills, where lack of oxygen slows decomposition significantly. Instead of breaking down safely, they can release methane—a potent greenhouse gas.

2. What Does Compostable Mean?

Compostable products are made from organic materials that break down completely into non-toxic components (water, carbon dioxide, and nutrient-rich compost) within a specific timeframe.

Types of Compostable Products:

• Home compostable: Break down safely in your backyard compost bin (e.g. banana peels, certified home-compostable bags).

• Commercially compostable: Require high heat and controlled conditions available only in industrial facilities (e.g. PLA bioplastic cups).

Certifications to Look For:

• BPI Certified Compostable (US)

• OK Compost Home or Industrial (Europe)

Example Products:

• Compostable food waste bags (check if they’re home compostable)

• Compostable mailers (available from sustainable packaging brands)

3. Biodegradable vs. Compostable: Which Is Better?

Biodegradable	Compostable
Breaks down over time, but timeframe and safety vary	Breaks down into non-toxic compost within a set timeframe
May leave microplastic residue	Leaves no harmful residue
Often ends up in landfills where decomposition is slow or incomplete	Can enrich soil when properly composted

Bottom line:

Compostable is generally the better choice—if you have access to appropriate composting facilities.

4. The Limitations of Both Labels

While compostable and biodegradable products are steps forward, they’re not perfect solutions.

Key Limitations:

• Compostable products require proper disposal to achieve their benefit. If thrown in regular trash, they may not break down effectively.

• Biodegradable plastics can create microplastic pollution if conditions aren’t right.

• Not all cities have industrial composting facilities, limiting options for compostable plastic cups or bags.

Love.com Tip:

Whenever possible, choose reusable products first, compostable second, biodegradable as a last resort.

5. How to Shop Consciously: Practical Tips

Check Certifications:

Look for BPI, OK Compost, or TUV Austria certifications to ensure claims are verified.

Know Your Local Options:

• Check with your city’s waste management to see if industrial composting is available.

• If only home composting is an option, ensure products are certified for backyard composting.

Avoid Greenwashing:

• Beware of vague labels like “eco-friendly” or “green” with no certification or explanation.

• Avoid “oxo-biodegradable” plastics, which fragment into microplastics rather than fully degrading.

6. Product Recommendations from Love.com

Here are some compostable products to integrate into your daily life:

For the Kitchen:

• Compostable food waste bags: Certified home compostable, durable enough for daily use.

• Plant-based sponges: Fully compostable at end of life.

For Shipping & Storage:

• Compostable mailers: Strong, tear-resistant, and break down in commercial compost within 90 days.

For On-the-Go:

• Compostable cutlery and plates: Great for picnics or events when reusables aren’t feasible.

Explore Compostable Products on Love.com

7. Final Thoughts: Choose With Intention

While both compostable and biodegradable products offer alternatives to conventional plastics, compostable items with proper disposal are the best choice. However, the most sustainable option remains reusable, durable products that avoid waste entirely.

Your Impact Matters:

By understanding the difference and choosing wisely, you:

• Reduce landfill waste

• Prevent microplastic pollution

• Support companies creating truly eco-friendly solutions

Every conscious choice adds up to a cleaner, healthier planet.

More to Explore:

• What Does Carbon Neutral Really Mean?

• Why Slower Shipping Is the Greener Choice

• The Fast Fashion of E-Commerce: How Overconsumption Creeps Into Online Shopping