The Acceptance of Compostable Plastics

The European Union's strategy for the circular economy recognizes the significance of composting and anaerobic digestion in managing bio-waste that cannot be prevented. To ensure effective outcomes, it emphasizes the importance of high-quality input through separate collection. Bio-waste management can make a substantial impact on the EU's circular economy strategy. Recycling 90-116 million tons of bio-waste into high-quality compost could enhance the quality of 3% to 7% of depleted agricultural soils in the EU and address soil degradation issues. Moreover, maximizing composting could replace a significant portion of phosphate, potassium, and lime fertilizers. While compostable bioplastic bags have been successfully used for bio-waste collection in several EU countries, their acceptance in composting facilities varies across regions. It is crucial for the ECN (European Compost Network) to address the inclusion of compostable products in the bio-waste recycling chain, requiring agreements with composting plant operators to ensure a smooth recycling process and the production of quality end products.