Whether you are a seasoned player in sustainability or just starting out and trying to get the hang of those common buzzwords, the word "compostable" is often used quite often. Compostable and biodegradable are often used interchangeably, even though both have entirely different meanings. And, if you are shopping for products like compostable plates or bowls, it is pretty vital to understand what the term "certified compostable" actually means. So, if you are still trying to figure that out, we have got you from here. Read the below blog to explore what exactly is compostable and not. Also, read to understand the difference between biodegradable products and compostable products; and why compostable cups are plates are better than single-use plastic options. Understanding Compostable Products A product is lifted compostable if it has been tested or verified to break down into compost within a few weeks after disposal. One vital thing that distinguishes compostable and biodegradable products is that when compostable bowls break down, they do not leave harmful residue behind. Rather, they simply break down into mineral-rich and nutrient-heavy compost which can be added to the soil as manure. Below are two main types of compostability labels you need to know: TUV Certification for Home Compostable products TUV Austria certification issues certified claims on products that can be composted in your backyard. Based on European standards, these products claim those resources that do not require external interference and naturally break down into compost without much interference. These products can easily be dumped in your compost bin and can also be backyard composted. TUV Certification for Industrial Compostable Certain compostable products like compostable ziplock bags require some external factors to break down into compost, making them valid for industrial compostable only. These products are usually designed in materials that require high temperatures to break down into compost. In case you are using an industrial compostable product like a compostable cup, it is vital you dispose of it in a compost bin, and send the trash to your local composting facilities. While a home compostable product like a compostable bowl can break down in an industrial facility as well, compostable ziplock bags will not break down through home composting. USDA Certification for Plant-Based Products In most cases, compostable products are also plant-based. This is why we have gone the extra mile to claim all three certifications for most of our products. Our compostable plates and bowl range is USDA-certified for being plant-based, implying that they can be composted as well for a safe and environmentally friendly. Compostable Products vs Single-Use Plastic/Paper Products It's true that single-use plastic or paper products can indeed be pretty convenient. They are easy to use and get rid of. However, they are not very easy on the planet. Meant for only single-use, disposable plastic or paper products can be catastrophic for the planet. To start with, single-use plastic plates and bowls are made straight from non-renewable resources like petroleum. Plus, their manufacturing process is highly resource-intensive. That's not it. When it's time to dispose of them, this plastic trash often gets dumped in our oceans or landfills, where it sits for several decades or even centuries, until it starts to degrade. When they do start degrading, these plastic single-use products release toxins into the soil and leave behind a long trail of microplastics. In short, plastic never really goes away. However, the disposal of compostable products is not that intensive. For starters, products like compostable takeout containers and bowls are made straight from plants and do not rely on any non-renewable resources. Plus, when they are disposed of, they break down into compost within just 90-180 days after disposal, leaving behind nutrient-rich compost and not chemical-leaching microplastics. Wrapping It Up: Responsible Disposal of Compostable Products While compostable products are labeled to break down into compost, it is often to ensure a safe and responsible disposal. If a product like a compostable plate is home-compostable, you can do backyard composting. However, if you want to compost a compostable ziplock bag, make sure to dispose of it in a compost bin and contact your local facilities for the nearest composting location.