With the adoption of the first part of the second circular economy package by the European Commission, including a policy framework for bio-based, biodegradable and compostable plastics, and a proposal for a new Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR).

So, what is “compostable”and “compostable products”?

Compostable (adj): capable of undergoing aerobic biological decomposition in a compost system, such that the material becomes visually indistinguishable and breaks down into carbon dioxide, water, inorganic compounds, and biomass.

Compostable product(n): Any product that is specifically manufactured to decompose in a composting system at the end of its useful life. They can be made from plastic, paper or plant fibres, as well as other ingredients that provide the necessary form and function. They contribute to the efficient collection of compostable food and other organic matter and reduce physical contamination in the finished compost by replacing conventional plastics.

Compostable products include items such as compostable trash bags, compostable carry bags，compostable paper cups, food packaging, cups, plates and serviceware.

The European Bioplastics Association (EUBP) welcomes the new rules on packaging and bioplastics that are included. The industry appreciates the Commission's first comprehensive policy framework on innovative bioplastic materials , as it recognises the potential of these materials to provide real environmental benefits. The bioplastics industry is particularly pleased to see that the partial ban on compostable plastic packaging initially proposed has finally been lifted and that compostable packaging solutions will continue to be allowed to be sold and recycled in the EU

The bioplastics industry is particularly pleased to see that the initial partial ban on compostable plastic packaging has finally been lifted and that compostable packaging solutions will continue to be allowed to be sold and recycled in the EU. the PPWR proposal recognises the contribution of compostable plastics in improving the quantity and quality of separately collected bio-waste and reducing pollution of (organic) waste streams. By mandating several packaging applications to be compostable in industrial composting facilities, including tea bags, filter coffee beans and mats, fruit stickers and very light plastic carrier bags. It is a first step in the right direction.