Compostable Packaging Glossary
Sustainable packaging comes with a growing number of materials, certifications, technical terms and disposal requirements. Understanding the difference between terms such as compostable, biodegradable, biobased and recyclable is important when choosing packaging that performs effectively while meeting your environmental objectives.
This glossary explains some of the most common terms used across the compostable and sustainable packaging industry, from materials such as PLA, PBAT and cellulose to compostability standards, barrier properties and packaging performance.
Whether you’re exploring compostable packaging for the first time or assessing alternatives to conventional plastic, use this guide to better understand the terminology and what it means when specifying packaging for your products.
Aerobic Digestion
Aerobic digestion is a biological process where organic material breaks down in the presence of oxygen. It produces CO₂, water, and stabilised organic matter, similar to composting but typically faster and more controlled. Some compostable packaging can break down in aerobic digestion systems, depending on material type. It is used in certain municipal organic‑waste treatment facilities. Aerobic digestion supports circular‑economy goals by converting organic waste into usable soil products.
Anaerobic Digestion
Anaerobic digestion breaks down organic material without oxygen, producing biogas and digestate. It is widely used for food waste and agricultural residues. Not all compostable packaging breaks down effectively in anaerobic systems, so compatibility must be verified. Digestate may require further composting before use. Clear disposal guidance helps prevent contamination of anaerobic‑digestion facilities.
Barrier Properties
Barrier properties describe how well packaging resists oxygen, moisture, aromas, grease, or vapour transfer. Strong barrier performance helps maintain food freshness and shelf life. Compostable films can achieve competitive barrier levels using cellulose, PLA, and multilayer structures. Barrier testing is essential for food manufacturers. It ensures packaging meets product‑specific protection needs.
Bio‑PE
Bio‑PE is polyethylene made from renewable biological feedstocks. It is biobased but not biodegradable or compostable. Bio‑PE behaves like conventional PE and is recyclable in existing PE recycling streams. It reduces fossil resource use and carbon footprint. Bio‑PE is used in bottles, caps, and some flexible packaging.
Bio‑PET
Bio‑PET contains renewable feedstock but is not compostable. It is recyclable like conventional PET. Bio‑PET is used in beverage bottles, trays, and rigid packaging. It helps reduce carbon footprint while maintaining PET’s performance. It is important to distinguish Bio‑PET from compostable materials to avoid disposal confusion.
Biobased
Biobased materials are made partly or fully from renewable biological resources such as plants. Being biobased does not guarantee biodegradability or compostability. For example, Bio‑PE is biobased but behaves like conventional plastic. Biobased content helps reduce reliance on fossil fuels. Certifications verify renewable content percentages.
Biodegradation
Biodegradation is the biological breakdown of a material by microorganisms into CO₂, water, and biomass. Compostable materials must biodegrade within defined timeframes. Biodegradation ensures materials do not persist in the environment. It is measured under controlled conditions. It is a core requirement of compostability standards.
Biodegradable
Biodegradable materials break down through natural microbial activity, but the term alone does not specify how quickly or under what conditions. Some biodegradable plastics may take years to degrade. Biodegradable does not equal compostable. Compostable materials must meet strict time‑bound and residue‑free criteria. Clear terminology prevents greenwashing.
Bioplastic
Bioplastic is an umbrella term covering biobased, biodegradable, compostable, or combinations of these properties. Not all bioplastics are compostable. Compostable bioplastics such as PLA and PBAT are widely used in flexible packaging. Understanding the differences helps avoid misleading claims. Bioplastics are central to sustainable packaging strategies.
BPI Certification
BPI is a widely recognised North American certification programme for industrially compostable products. It verifies biodegradation, disintegration, and safety under ASTM standards. BPI certification is essential for brands selling compostable packaging in the US and Canada. It ensures materials meet strict environmental criteria. Most industrial composting facilities accept BPI‑certified products.
Cellophane
Cellophane is a transparent film made from regenerated cellulose. Unlike plastic film, cellophane is naturally compostable. It offers strong barrier properties for dry foods and confectionery. Cellophane is widely used in premium packaging. It breaks down cleanly in composting environments.
Cellulose
Cellulose is a natural polymer derived from plant matter. It is used to make compostable films, nets, and wraps. Cellulose films offer excellent clarity, printability, and barrier properties. They are typically home compostable. Cellulose is one of the oldest compostable materials.
COF (Coefficient of Friction)
COF measures how easily one packaging surface slides against another. It is important for automated packaging machinery. Compostable films must have controlled COF to run smoothly on high‑speed lines. COF affects feeding, sealing, and cutting performance. It is a critical machinability parameter.
Commercial Composting
Commercial composting is another term for industrial composting. It refers to large‑scale composting operations. Commercial composting ensures reliable breakdown of certified compostable packaging. It is essential for food‑service waste streams. Many municipalities operate commercial composting facilities.
Compost Quality
Compost quality refers to the requirement that resulting compost meets defined criteria and does not contain harmful residues. High‑quality compost supports soil health and agriculture. Compostable packaging must break down fully to maintain compost quality. Certification schemes verify this performance. Compost quality is essential for circular‑economy packaging.
Compostable Film
Compostable film is flexible film manufactured from compostable polymers. It is designed to meet relevant compostability requirements such as EN 13432. Compostable films are used for bags, pouches, flow wrap, and produce packaging. They offer strong barrier properties and sealing performance. Compostable films are a core product category for Treetop Biopak.
Compostable Packaging
Compostable packaging is designed to break down into natural compost under defined composting conditions. It transforms into CO₂, water, and biomass without leaving harmful residues. Compostable packaging must meet strict standards such as EN 13432. It is increasingly used by brands seeking lower environmental impact. It supports organic recycling and reduces landfill waste.
Compostability Certification
Compostability certification verifies that a product meets defined standards for composting and biodegradation. It ensures materials break down safely and effectively. Certification prevents misleading environmental claims. It is essential for retailers, manufacturers, and waste‑management operators. Certified compostable packaging supports a circular economy.
Disintegration
Disintegration refers to the physical breakdown of packaging into small pieces during composting. It is different from biodegradation, which is chemical breakdown. Packaging must disintegrate within a defined timeframe to meet compostability standards. Disintegration ensures compost is free from visible fragments. It is a key requirement in EN 13432.
Ecotoxicity
Ecotoxicity testing assesses whether the resulting compost or degradation products have harmful effects on plants or organisms. Compostable packaging must not negatively impact soil health. Ecotoxicity is a core requirement of EN 13432. It ensures compost is safe for agricultural use. Brands rely on ecotoxicity testing to validate environmental claims.
EN 13432
EN 13432 is the European standard defining requirements for packaging that can be recovered through industrial composting. It specifies criteria for biodegradation, disintegration, ecotoxicity, and heavy‑metal content. Packaging must break down within a defined timeframe. EN 13432 is the most recognised compostability standard in Europe. It is essential for compostable packaging sold in the UK and EU.
EN 14995
EN 14995 is a European standard concerning the compostability of plastics and plastic products more generally. It complements EN 13432 by covering non‑packaging items. Products must meet strict biodegradation and disintegration criteria. EN 14995 is used for compostable cutlery, films, and other plastic items. It ensures consistent environmental performance across compostable plastics.
End‑of‑Life
End‑of‑life refers to what happens to packaging after use, such as recycling, composting, anaerobic digestion, energy recovery, or disposal. Compostable packaging supports organic recycling and reduces landfill waste. Clear labelling helps consumers choose the correct disposal route. End‑of‑life planning is essential for sustainable packaging strategies. Compostable materials help brands meet circular‑economy goals.
Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR)
EPR makes producers responsible for aspects of the environmental impact and end‑of‑life management of packaging. It encourages sustainable packaging choices. Compostable packaging can help brands meet EPR obligations for organic waste streams. EPR schemes are expanding across Europe and the UK. Businesses must prepare for increasing compliance requirements.
Fossil‑Based Polymer
Fossil‑based polymers are made from petroleum or natural gas. They are the most common plastics in packaging. Many fossil plastics are not biodegradable and persist in the environment. Compostable packaging offers an alternative to fossil‑based materials. Understanding the difference helps businesses reduce environmental impact.
Flexible Packaging
Flexible packaging includes lightweight packaging such as bags, films, pouches, flow wrap, and sachets. Compostable flexible packaging offers a sustainable alternative to fossil‑based films. It is widely used in food, retail, and e‑commerce. Flexible packaging reduces material use and transportation emissions. Compostable versions support organic recycling.
Flow Wrap / Flow Wrapping
Flow wrapping is a high‑speed packaging process in which film is wrapped around a product and sealed. It is commonly used for bakery, confectionery, and snacks. Compostable flow‑wrap films offer strong sealing and barrier performance. They must be engineered for high‑speed machinability. Flow wrap is one of the most common applications for compostable films.
Heat Sealing
Heat sealing joins packaging film using heat. It is used to manufacture bags, pouches, and flow‑wrapped packs. Compostable films require specific sealing temperatures and dwell times. Good heat‑seal performance ensures pack integrity. Heat sealing is a critical factor in machinability.
Heavy Metals / Restricted Substances
Compostable products must meet strict limits for heavy metals and restricted substances. This prevents harmful accumulation in compost and soil. Standards such as EN 13432 define allowable thresholds. Testing ensures packaging is safe for organic recycling. Compliance is essential for certification.
Home Compostable
Home compostable packaging breaks down in a well‑managed home compost bin without requiring industrial heat or pressure. It degrades at lower temperatures and slower rates. TÜV OK compost HOME verifies performance. Home compostable packaging is ideal for consumer‑facing brands. It simplifies disposal and reduces contamination.
Industrial Compostable
Industrial compostable packaging requires the controlled conditions of commercial composting facilities. These facilities provide higher temperatures, oxygen flow, and moisture levels. Industrial compostable materials break down faster and more reliably. They must meet standards such as EN 13432. Many compostable films and pouches fall into this category.
Industrial Composting Facility
An industrial composting facility provides the temperature, moisture, oxygen, and processing conditions required for industrial composting. These facilities operate at higher temperatures than home compost bins. They ensure rapid and complete breakdown of compostable packaging. Industrial composting is widely used for food waste and organic recycling.
Industrially Compostable vs Home Compostable
Industrial compostability does not automatically mean a product is suitable for home composting. Home composting environments are cooler and less controlled. Only specially designed materials will break down effectively. Clear labelling prevents consumer confusion. Understanding the difference helps brands choose the right packaging.
Machinability
Machinability refers to how effectively packaging material performs on automated filling, bagging, flow‑wrapping, or other packaging equipment. Compostable films must be engineered for smooth running. Good machinability reduces downtime and increases efficiency. Brands rely on machinability testing before switching to compostable packaging. Treetop Biopak specialises in high‑machinability compostable films.
Multilayer Packaging
Multilayer packaging is made from multiple layers of different materials. It provides barrier, strength, and sealing properties. Compostable multilayer films combine biopolymers to achieve performance similar to conventional plastics. They must be carefully engineered to meet compostability standards. Multilayer compostable packaging is used for snacks, dry foods, and premium products.
OTR (Oxygen Transmission Rate)
OTR measures the rate at which oxygen passes through a packaging material. Low OTR is important for products sensitive to oxidation. Compostable films can achieve competitive OTR values. OTR is a key specification for food manufacturers. It helps determine shelf life and product protection.
PBS (Polybutylene Succinate)
PBS is a biodegradable polymer used in some compostable films. It offers good heat resistance and mechanical strength. PBS can be blended with other biopolymers to improve performance. It is typically industrially compostable. PBS is used in flexible packaging and agricultural films.
PBAT (Polybutylene Adipate Terephthalate)
PBAT is a biodegradable polymer known for flexibility and toughness. It is often blended with PLA or starch to create compostable films. PBAT helps packaging achieve better sealing and mechanical performance. It is industrially compostable under EN 13432. PBAT is common in compostable bags and liners.
PHA (Polyhydroxyalkanoate)
PHA is a family of biodegradable polymers produced by microorganisms. It can be home or industrially compostable depending on formulation. PHA is gaining attention for its marine biodegradability. It is used in films, coatings, and moulded items. PHA offers strong sustainability credentials.
Plastic Packaging Tax (PPT)
The UK Plastic Packaging Tax applies to certain plastic packaging that does not contain the required proportion of recycled plastic. Compostable packaging is exempt from PPT because it is not fossil‑based plastic. This makes compostable packaging financially attractive. PPT encourages companies to switch to sustainable alternatives.
PLA (Polylactic Acid)
PLA is a biobased polymer made from crops like corn or sugarcane. It is widely used in compostable packaging due to its clarity and stiffness. PLA is typically industrially compostable. It is used in films, thermoformed trays, and coatings. PLA offers a lower carbon footprint compared to fossil plastics.
Regenerated Cellulose
Regenerated cellulose is cellulose processed into a usable film. It is compostable and widely used in food packaging. These films offer excellent clarity, strength, and printability. They are often home compostable. Regenerated cellulose is a sustainable alternative to fossil‑based films.
Seedling Logo
The Seedling Logo is a European certification mark historically associated with packaging certified to EN 13432 requirements. It helps consumers identify compostable packaging. The logo is widely used across Europe and the UK. It indicates compliance with industrial composting standards. Brands use it to build trust.
Seal Strength
Seal strength refers to the strength of the seal joining two layers of packaging film. Strong seals prevent leaks and maintain product freshness. Compostable films can achieve high seal strength when correctly specified. Seal strength is important for automated packaging lines. It is a key quality metric.
Shelf Life
Shelf life refers to the period for which packaged food maintains required quality, safety, and freshness. Packaging plays a major role in shelf life by controlling oxygen, moisture, and aroma transfer. Compostable packaging can deliver strong shelf‑life performance when correctly specified. Brands must match material properties to product needs.
Starch‑Based Packaging
Starch‑based packaging uses starch from crops like corn, potato, or cassava. It is often blended with other polymers to improve strength. Starch films are compostable and suitable for bags and liners. They offer good oxygen barrier properties. Starch packaging is popular for food waste bags.
TÜV AUSTRIA OK compost HOME
This certification scheme verifies compostability under home‑composting conditions. It ensures materials break down at lower temperatures and in less controlled environments. Home compost certification is important for consumer‑facing packaging. It provides clarity on disposal. TÜV HOME is widely recognised by retailers.
TÜV AUSTRIA OK compost INDUSTRIAL
This certification scheme verifies industrial compostability. It ensures materials meet strict biodegradation, disintegration, and safety criteria. Products carrying this mark can be confidently sent to industrial composting facilities. TÜV AUSTRIA is one of the most trusted certification bodies globally. Many compostable films rely on this certification.
Wicket Bag
A wicket bag is a bag supplied on a metal or plastic wicket, allowing automated packaging machines to dispense bags individually. Compostable wicket bags are used for bakery, produce, and retail applications. They offer strong sealing and clarity. Wicket bags improve packing speed and efficiency.
WVTR (Water Vapour Transmission Rate)
WVTR measures the rate at which water vapour passes through packaging. It is critical for products sensitive to moisture. Compostable films offer varying WVTR levels depending on material type. WVTR testing helps brands choose the right packaging.
Looking for the Right Compostable Packaging for Your Products?
Understanding the terminology is only the first step. The right packaging needs to balance sustainability with the practical demands of your product, supply chain and packaging machinery.
Explore Treetop Biopak’s Terra Compostable range to discover compostable films and packaging solutions designed to provide a genuine alternative to conventional plastic without compromising on performance.
Not sure which material or packaging format is right for your application? Contact the Treetop Biopak team to discuss your requirements. We can help you identify a solution that works for your product, your packaging process and your sustainability goals.
