The role of packaging cannot be overstated in today’s world. It protects food items and products, ensuring safe transportation. However, the widespread use of conventional packaging materials has raised significant concerns about their environmental impact. According to a US EPA report, a staggering 28.1% of the municipal solid waste generated in the United States comes solely from containers and packaging.
Compostable packaging represents a lifeline in comparison to the traditional options. As consumer consciousness awakens to the increasing use of conventional packaging materials, the paradigm shift toward compostable packaging has become an imperative, not an option. Government policies and regulations can address this concern to build a cleaner earth.
The Need for Compostable Packaging
According to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), an estimated 8 million tons of plastic waste enter the oceans annually. In contrast, compostable food packaging materials made of bagasse (sugarcane fibre), bamboo, wheat straw fibre, paper and Polylactic Acid (PLA) offer a compostable alternative. These materials are designed to break down into nutrient-rich soil in approximately 180 days, reducing waste and lowering carbon footprint.
Consumer demand for sustainable packaging solutions is growing, driven by increased environmental awareness and a desire for eco-friendly products. A recent survey by Trivium Packaging found that 79% of consumers prefer sustainable packaging options, indicating a significant market opportunity for companies that adopt compostable packaging.
Government Policies and Regulations
Several governments across the globe have implemented policies and regulations to encourage the adoption of compostable packaging. For instance, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has taken steps to address the environmental impact of non-biodegradable packaging by promoting innovative and alternative food packaging materials. This campaign, “Eat Right India for Sustainable Living” was started in 2018 in alignment with the Indian Government’s vision to eliminate single-use plastic in the future.
In 2022, the Uttar Pradesh forest department launched a 5-day campaign, “RACE” to reduce single-use plastic, raise awareness and promote circular solutions, aiming to make the state plastic-free.
The European Union’s Single-Use Plastics Directive aims to reduce the impact of certain plastic products on the environment by banning single-use plastic items and imposing labelling and extended producer responsibility requirements. In the United States, several states and cities have taken initiatives to ban the use of non-biodegradable packaging materials. In 2020, Canada imposed a ban on a range of single-use plastic products like plastic grocery bags, cutlery, straws, stir sticks, six-pack rings and food take-out containers that are hard to recycle.
In the United Arab Emirates (UAE), government authorities have taken some corrective measures to address this issue. According to an Executive Council Resolution, single-use plastic bags have been banned in Dubai on 01st January, 2024. Single-use plastic products like plastic stirrers, cups, Styrofoam food containers, plastic straws and plastic cotton swabs, will be banned from 01 st January, 2025. In Abu Dhabi, the Government has also established ‘The Center for Waste Management’ (CWM) to control and coordinate activities associated with sustainable waste management.
Strategies for Encouraging the Transition
To accelerate the transition to compostable packaging, Governments can implement a range of
policies and regulations:
Banning Non-Biodegradable Packaging Materials
Implementing nationwide or regional bans on specific non-biodegradable packaging materials, such as plastics and polystyrene foam can drive the adoption of compostable alternatives. For instance, Zimbabwe implemented a ban on polystyrene food containers in 2017 and Kenya banned single-use plastic in the same year.
Providing financial incentives or tax credits
Offering financial incentives, such as tax credits or subsidies to companies that adopt compostable packaging can offset the potential higher costs associated with the transition. For example, the UK introduced a tax on plastic bags in 2015, which led to a more than 98% decline in the usage of single-use plastic bags.
Mandating Compostable Packaging for certain Products or Industries
The use of compostable packaging for specific products or industries, such as food service or retail can create a significant market demand for compostable packaging solutions. Australia envisions phasing out single-use plastics and reaching recycling goals under the 2025 National Packaging Targets. This would require all packaging to be 100% reusable, recyclable and compostable.
Promoting Public Awareness and Education Campaigns
Raising public awareness through educational campaigns and initiatives can increase consumer demand for compostable packaging options, encouraging companies to adopt compostable packaging. The Indian Government has been leaving no stone unturned to create awareness of its one-of-a-kind Swachh Bharat Mission through hoardings, publicity and advertising.
Bottom-line
Compostable packaging presents a promising solution to the environmental challenges posed by traditional packaging materials. It offers a sustainable alternative that can help reduce waste, lower carbon footprints, and contribute to a more circular economy. By implementing policies and regulations to support the adoption of compostable packaging, governments can play a pivotal role in promoting a more sustainable future for packaging.
About the Author:
Gautam Ghosh
Executive Director & Team Excellence Head,
Pakka Limited.