your source for earth-friendly containers & utensils
FAQs
understanding compostable and biodegradable packaging
What is the difference between Compostable and Biodegradable?
Biodegradable -- A substance being broken down naturally by microorganisms.
Compostable -- The ability to biodegrade in a managed process, producing compost in about 180 days.
What are compostable products made of?
Biodegradable and compostable products are made from natural sources like sugarcane, bamboo, eucalyptus, reed grass, corn, lime and potato.
Why is it better to use compostables instead of regular petroleum-based packaging products?
Petroleum-based products pollute our water and increase greenhouse gases. Petroleum-based plastics should be recycled and when they are not they litter our environment. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that 92% of Americans age 6 or older test positive for the toxin BPA, which is found in plastic. Biodegradables are natural and made from plants.
Does recycling help take care of the accumulation of plastics and StyrofoamTM?
No. Figures from the EPA say that we recycle less than 1% of the total plastic we generate. And in some areas of the United States there is no recycling at all. In many areas of the country Polystyrene, commonly known as StyrofoamTM, packaging is not recycled and ends up in the landfill when disposed.
Do all of the products found at Green Duck break down naturally?
Yes -- we offer ONLY natural, earth-friendly packaging that is renewable, sustainable, compostable, biodegradable and petroleum-FREE.
Are your products carbon-neutral?
Yes. The carbon released is equal to that which the plant absorbed from the atmosphere during its growth. If the products are composted, much of the carbon will be fixed in the compost, replenishing the soil to assist plant growth.
What is PLA corn plastic?
PLA or polylactide is made from corn. PLA is a made from a natural sugar derived from the starch in kernels of corn. Regular plastic is made from petroleum.
What Products are made with PLA?
Products that have PLA are clear cups, deli containers, bowls, clear containers and cutlery. These products will tolerate temperatures under 110 degrees.
What is Bagasse?
Bagasse is made of sugarcane. Bagasse is the fibrous waste left over after the extraction of the sugar from the sugarcane. This used to be burned and disposed of as waste, but now is used as packaging for the food service industry. Bagasse is fully heat tolerant like paper but can be used for wet or dry food. It can be frozen, put in the microwave or baked. On average, Bagasse takes about 30-90 days to biodegrade.
Is Bagasse better for the environment than using paper products?
Some say yes. The refuse from sugar cane has traditionally been burned as waste -- now the leftover sugar cane stalks are used to make food packaging products. Now that Bagasse is being used for food packaging the refuse is not burned and is a completely renewable source.
Is compostable packaging more expensive than normal petroleum-based packaging?
You may find that biodegradable packaging is more expensive than petroleum-based plastic packaging, however the prices are equalizing rapidly as the price of oil rises. For instance, some PET plastic cups are more expensive than PLA clear cups. Overall, the price comparison doesn’t compare to the added benefit of biodegradables.
How will my business benefit by using Green Duck compostables?
Biodegradables are made from renewable sources and that reduce greenhouse gases and space needed for landfills. Using biodegradables provide product that is appealing to customers who are aware of the negative impacts of petroleum-based plastics.
Using biodegradable products will demonstrate that your business is making strides to improve your community -- this has proven to be a strong marketing advantage.
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