What’s the difference between compostable bags and regular plastic bags?

Plastics have become an indispensable part of modern life, but their environmental impact is a massive concern. As the fight against plastic pollution increases, there's a growing interest in more sustainable alternatives and eco-friendly products. For anyone comparing compostable bags vs regular plastic bags, the difference matters more than ever.

If you’re looking to replace your regular plastic bags with green bags, then consider compostable bags. Unlike traditional plastics, which manufacturers make from fossil fuels, biodegradable plastic bags utilise resources that we can replenish.

We go a few steps further to ensure you get a green bag when you use Ecopack compostable bin liners. Some bioplastic packaging is biodegradable, some is compostable…but the best biodegradable bags do both! Ecopack compostable bin liners stand out as an eco-friendly solution because they’re biodegradable bags that are made with GMO-free corn starch and certified for both home and commercial composting.

Composition of compostable bags vs plastic bags

Regular plastics usually come from petroleum or natural gas through a process called polymerisation. These plastics, such as polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET), are strong and long-lasting. However, they do not break down in nature, so they remain in the environment for hundreds or even thousands of years.

Compostable bags, on the other hand, use renewable resources like corn starch, sugarcane or cellulose, plus Polylactic Acid (PLA) and Polybutylene Adipate Terephthalate (PBAT). Manufacturers add PBAT to improve strength and help the material break down more easily. These materials also go through polymerisation, but they form plastics that break down under specific composting conditions. Compostable bin bags turn into carbon dioxide, water and biomass when microorganisms drive the composting process.

Environmental impact of plastic production

We already know the environmental impact of plastic bags is huge. Since regular plastic bags do not break down, they build up in landfills, oceans, and natural habitats. They also threaten wildlife and human health. In addition, producing regular plastics depends heavily on fossil fuels, which increases greenhouse gas emissions and accelerates climate change.

Compostable bioplastics offer a more promising environmental profile. Since they come from renewable resources, their production creates fewer carbon emissions. Furthermore, they break down when composted and offer a realistic solution to our plastic problem. When composted in industrial facilities or home composting systems, compostable bags and their organic content break down into harmless substances, reducing the burden on landfills and the environment.

Challenges and considerations when choosing compostable bags

Biodegradable plastic bags show real promise as an alternative to regular plastics, but some key considerations remain. Not all bioplastics are compostable, and confusion between “biodegradable” and “compostable” can lead to poor disposal choices and contamination in composting facilities.

When choosing a compostable bag or compostable consumables (such as takeaway cups, ziplock bags, or cling film) make sure you select a trusted brand that uses certified compostable material. Note that some products that are advertised as “compostable” may only break down in a commercial facility. The end-of-life disposal needs to match the products’ intended waste stream. Rest assured, that when you purchase Ecopack compostable bags and products, you’re buying something that’s been well developed, tested and certified for both home and commercial composting.

Additionally, the production of compostable bioplastics may still involve energy-intensive processes and the use of agricultural land. As such, the sustainability of compostable plastic bags depends on ethical feedstock sourcing, responsible production methods, and end-of-life management practices.

When choosing compostable bags, consider:

• Where the product is certified to compost (home vs commercial)

• What feedstock the manufacturer uses

• Whether the brand provides transparent certification

• How the product should be disposed of

• Whether it replaces a high-impact plastic product

The best biodegradable bin liners

If you’re looking for a smart, sustainable alternative to plastic rubbish bags, Ecopack compostable bin liners offer a solid choice. Using our compostable bags can help reduce environmental pollution and decrease reliance on fossil fuels. Ecopack offers a comprehensive range suitable for home and commercial environments – with every bin size covered from extra small bench-top compost caddies, through to bin bags for communal offices, and even extra large wheelie bin compostable bags.

Ecopack supports the drive for improved labelling, investment in composting infrastructure, and public education to help promote the proper consumption and disposal of compostable bioplastics. By utilising renewable resources and encouraging composting, we believe that compostable bags represent a step towards a more sustainable and circular economy.