Understanding Packaging Eco Definitions For Waste Streams
To ensure we limit the environmental impact caused by packaging, it is important that we know what waste stream should be used to dispose of the packaging when we are finished using it.
To make this easier for you to understand, we have detailed below the definitions of the three main waste streams used for food packaging.
Able to decay naturally and in a way that is not harmful. Biodegradable packaging helps to limit the amount of harmful chemicals released into the atmosphere.
Compostable products must be certified to EN13432. This means they will decompose into compost in between 60-90 days in industrial compost facilities. You will need to separate your waste and ensure it is sent to Industrial Composting. Compostable products are generally not recyclable.
Disposal in general waste bin going to landfill or incineration.
Materials that once used can be reprocessed into new products.
Materials that can easily recycled near to the point of purchase or in popular communal locations.
Materials that can recycled in typical household recycling bins.
Composable
Compostable products must be certified to EN13432. This means they will decompose into compost in between 60-90 days in industrial compost facilities. You will need to separate your waste and ensure it is sent to Industrial Composting. Compostable products are generally not recyclable.
General Waste
Disposal in general waste bin going to landfill or incineration.
Disposal
Throw away. Not suitable for composting or recycling.
Recyclable
Products and materials featured as recyclable are all widely recycled. They will generally be picked up in general waste by waste management companies and sent for reprocessing.
Reusable
Products that are designed to be used repeatedly. Reusable packaging is one of the most promising solutions in terms of replacing single-use plastics and packaging and reducing their environmental impact.
There is a great deal of confusion as to how people should dispose of the packaging.
Whether at home, in the office or the High St, it can be difficult to know what to do with your food packaging when you have finished your favourite snack or lunch.
In this section of the website, we try to help you understand waste streams so you can identify which is the most suitable and matches your business needs.