Are There Biodegradable Trash Bags?

The truth is, there are several types of biodegradable trash bags available on the market, and each type has its own benefits and drawbacks. However, there are a few common standards that eco-friendly trash bag companies follow when it comes to manufacturing and selling their products.

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Composting vs biodegradable

Biodegradable trash bags seem like the obvious choice when considering a greener way to dispose of your trash. Unfortunately, they're not always environmentally friendly.

The term "biodegradable" can get confusing. It's often used by manufacturers to make customers feel good. But in reality, it's not a true biodegradable product.

Composting is a method of biodegradation. It is a process whereby microorganisms break down waste material into organic compounds such as carbon dioxide and water. Plant starch is an easy substrate for these microorganisms.

Composting takes place at an elevated temperature and in an anaerobic environment. It requires some moisture and oxygen for the process to be successful. However, landfills lack moisture, oxygen, and light, making the composting process take much longer.

A better option for the environment would be to use compostable trash bags. These bags are made of plants and other non-toxic materials that break down in a process similar to that of plant matter. They are typically designed for industrial composting facilities.

Many companies have started to sell biodegradable trash bags. Some companies even include a proprietary additive that hastens the decomposition process of anaerobic bacteria in a landfill.

While some claim these bags will break down in seven years, they're not actually compostable. This is because composting is a process that requires oxygen and nitrogen.

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Downsides of biodegradable trash bags

Biodegradable trash bags are a popular idea among many people. They're a good idea if you're trying to avoid littering, but they come with their own downsides.

First, biodegradable trash bags are not fully compostable bags. Instead, they break down into smaller pieces, which can still be harmful to the environment. These pieces of trash bag can be ingested by animals and birds.

Also, biodegradable trash bags can contaminate perfectly sorted recyclables. This can be a problem if you're recycling your plastics at home.

Another downside of biodegradable trash bags is that they're expensive. Compared to traditional trash bags, these bags have an expensive manufacturing process.

Some companies also make claims about biodegradability that are unproven. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has strict guidelines for companies making misleading product advertising. It's important to check the label for specific wording, as well as for third-party certifications.

A recent study examined two different brands of hydro-degradable trash bags. It found that both types of bags failed to decompose within three months. However, the plant-derived bags remained intact when buried under the soil for 27 months.

Oxo-degradable plastics are another type of plastic that can be broken down, but they don't decay completely. When exposed to UV light, these plastics trigger fragmentation. In addition, they emit methane, a potent greenhouse gas.

Common standards used by eco-friendly trash bag companies

There are numerous factors to consider when deciding on a trash bag. The most obvious one is the material from which it's made. Polyethylene is the most common plastic used in trash bags today. Although it has a low carbon footprint, it's not a zero-waste solution.

A better choice is a biodegradable or compostable trash bag. These products degrade in anaerobic conditions, meaning they break down in the environment where they are buried. This may not be a viable solution for home composting facilities, but they're still a good choice for municipalities with municipal collection programs.

Another option is a plant-based version, which may be less environmentally friendly. This type of bag can be made of recycled plastic or sugar cane. Some bags even incorporate corn starch. However, these may not be as environmentally friendly as a bag made from recycled polyethylene.

An eco-friendly version of the trash bag may also reduce energy usage. Many of these products are opaque, which helps block ultraviolet rays from entering your kitchen. As such, they're often touted as being eco-friendly.

Using a green or biodegradable trash bag is a no-brainer. Plastic bags are notorious for their environmental impact. For every single kilogram of plastic in use, six kg of CO2 are released into the atmosphere.