Ep. 15 - Clarifying the Confusion: Biodegradable vs. Compostable

Let’s Set Your Table Podcast

In this episode of Let's Set Your Table, the hosts discuss green and sustainable disposables with their guests from Eco Products. Our guests for this episode were Toby Alves, Product and Zero Waste Specialist with Eco-Products and Nicole Geletka, Regional Sales Manager with Eco-Products.

They aim to clarify the confusion around terms like "biodegradable" and "compostable" and educate owner-operators on waste diversion and the benefits of using certified compostable packaging.

The guests explain the differences between biodegradable and compostable materials, emphasizing that compostable items break down quickly and leave behind beneficial compost, while biodegradable items take longer and may leave residuals. They also highlight the importance of proper sorting and the role of signage in waste diversion. The guests offer their services and support to help operators make the transition to more sustainable practices!

Key Takeaways

• Compostable items break down quickly and leave behind beneficial compost, while biodegradable items take longer and may leave residuals.
• Compostable products are more strictly regulated with clear standards, while the term biodegradable is less regulated and can be misleading.
• Proper sorting and signage are important for successful waste diversion.
• Eco Products offers a range of new and innovative products for operators looking to transition to more sustainable practices.
• The cost of waste diversion and composting depends on the market and contract negotiations, but it can lead to cost savings and environmental benefits.
  

Sound Bites:

** "Compostable materials are designed to break down quickly and leave behind beneficial compost, while biodegradable materials take longer and could leave residuals."

** "Compostable items need a specific composting environment to break down properly, while biodegradable items may break down in a wider range of environments."
** "Compostable products are more strictly regulated with clear standards, while the term biodegradable is less regulated and can sometimes be misleading."

What we discussed:

00:00 - Introduction and Discussion of Green Disposables
05:26 - Roles and Value of Product and Zero Waste Specialists
07:53 - Eco Products' Differentiators and Commitment to Sustainability
13:52 - Educating Operators on Waste Diversion and Composting
17:52 - Clarifying the Differences: Biodegradable vs. Compostable
23:57 - Taking the Next Step: Entry Points for Operators
27:03 - Cost Considerations and Services Offered by Eco Products
29:35 - New and Exciting Innovations from Eco Products

Links:
Explore innovative industry leading green compostable packaging solutions at : https://www.hodegroup.com

The Hode Group Chicago Showroom: hodegroupshowroom.com

Let’s Set Your Table: Apple Podcasts