Nowadays, phrases like environmental awareness and ecological footprint are hot topics. Whether businesses or consumers, everybody is looking for ways to reduce their environmental footprint. Talking about the packaging world, biodegradable bags on a roll are gaining popularity. These biodegradable bags are marketed as an eco-friendly alternative to traditional bags. However, the big question is, how green are these bags?
At ANS Plastics Corp., we believe in complete transparency and informed decisions. It is important to clarify what biodegradable bags mean and what they offer.
Biodegradable bags on a roll are plastic-like bags dispensed from a roll. They are commonly used in the retail industry, food services, grocery stores, and even for collecting pet waste. Their composition makes them different. Unlike conventional bags, biodegradable bags break down over time because of certain microorganisms, such as bacteria and fungi.
In this regard, there are two main types of biodegradable bags:
Let’s understand how these two types compare in terms of environmental benefits.
Biodegradable bags have many good benefits that make them a positive choice:
It’s well-known that traditional plastic bags take hundreds of years to decompose. But biodegradable bags break down in a few months to a few years. This way, they are a useful product in landfills, water bodies, and areas prone to litter.
Many types of biodegradable bags have plant-based materials as their primary and only ingredients, reducing the dependency on fossil fuels. Compared to traditional plastic, these materials produce much less greenhouse gas during the production process.
Certain biodegradable bags (PLA or PBAT) fall under the compostable category and can be labeled as biodegradable. This means they can be broken down into non-toxic components in industrial composting facilities. This can enable better management of food waste and help in organic recycling programs.
Companies that decide to go with biodegradable packaging usually benefit from a robust, eco-conscious brand identity. This is a smart move to attract customers who prioritize sustainability.
Not all biodegradable bags are the same, even though they have multiple benefits. Some claims do not hold up under scrutiny. Here’s why the eco-friendliness of biodegradable bags is more complex than it seems.
There is a critical difference between compostable and biodegradable. All compostable bags are biodegradable, but not all biodegradable bags are compostable.
Unless a bag meets composting standards, its eco-friendliness is questionable.
Specific conditions, such as high heat and certain microorganisms, might need to be met for the bag to compost, which is often the case in industrial composting centers. These are not available in many cities, which means the bag may end up in a landfill anyway.
In a landfill, the absence of a biodegradation environment, such as the lack of oxygen, gives rise to the slow decomposition of bags.
In many areas, the term “biodegradable” is not strictly regulated. Some companies claim that they have essential certificates supporting the claim. This may confuse customers because it creates the illusion that buying the product will result in a beneficial purchase aimed toward the environment.
The plant-based polymers used in creating biodegradable bags can be susceptible to heat and humidity, making them short-lived. Such qualities can be a disadvantage when it comes to storing them for a longer period.
Sustainability at ANS Plastics Corp. begins with us. We look at what can be done with biodegradable materials, but we also focus on education, innovation, and responsibility.
Our team works with clients to:
We believe the right approach towards sustainability is not just material substitution but a complete redesign of the product’s life cycle – from production to disposal.
The answer is both yes and no. Biodegradable bags on a roll can be more eco-friendly compared to traditional plastic bags if used and disposed of properly. However, they can easily become another form of waste without the right materials, certifications, regulations, and supporting systems.
To lower a product’s environmental footprint, we should combine biodegradable innovation with smarter waste management, clear labeling, and mindful purchasing practices.
At ANS Plastics Corp., we are exceptionally proud to be part of this change. We are here to assist you if you want to switch your packaging and retail solutions to more sustainable options.
Contact ANS Plastics Corp. to learn more about our biodegradable bags and other sustainable packaging solutions, and we will show you how this will contribute to your business sustainability goals.