Is biodegradable coffee packaging a cure for the planet?

Roasters tend to switch from non-recyclable materials to biodegradable coffee packaging. This constitutes an important turning point for the long-term success of the business and for the future of our planet.

What is biodegradable packaging?

Biodegradable materials are materials that can be broken down into carbon, water or biomass after use. In most cases, these materials can be completely disintegrated into the soil in as little as 6 weeks.

According to recent estimates, many municipal solid waste landfills (MSWs) are a major source of methane emissions, with a significant impact on global warming.

As a result, many roasters have switched from non-recyclable materials to biodegradable and compostable packaging in an effort to reduce the amount of waste that ends up in landfills.

Biodegradable packaging

Packaging accounts for about 3% of the total carbon footprint of the Specialty coffee supply chain. If plastic packaging is not sourced, manufactured, transported and disposed of properly, it can harm the environment. To truly make a “green” planet, packaging is not simply recyclable or reusable – it is best biodegradable into the environment.

When it comes to biodegradable coffee packaging, we’re talking about a material that benefits the planet. Your coffee waste will create nutrients for the soil.

The difference between biodegradable and biodegradable packaging

Biodegradable packaging is made from materials that will eventually break down into smaller particles. The time to decompose depends on the item and the environment.

For example, light, water, oxygen concentration, and temperature all play an important role in how long decomposition will take.

Technically, there are many products that can be considered biodegradable, since the only prerequisite is that it needs to be biodegradable. However, to be officially labeled as biodegradable according to ISO 14855-1, 90% of the product must decompose within six months.

Biodegradable coffee packaging can often be disposed of with general waste

Meanwhile, biodegradable packaging is made from materials that can decompose into water, carbon dioxide and biomass (renewable energy) under the right conditions.

The European Standard EN 13432 requires that these materials be decomposed within 12 weeks of disposal. Furthermore, they must completely decompose on their own within six months.

A warm, humid environment with a high concentration of oxygen is the optimal setting for internal decomposition to take place. This encourages a process called anaerobic digestion, whereby bacteria break down organic matter.

Essentially, all biodegradable packaging is biodegradable, but not all biodegradable packaging is biodegradable.

Simply put, the biggest difference between biodegradable and biodegradable materials is the time it takes for them to break down. Biodegradable materials are not considered degradable unless they can spontaneously break down into smaller particles. And they usually take up to 6 months to fully degrade to their intended state. Meanwhile, biodegradable materials can break down much faster.

Coffee consumers are taking their own steps to become more sustainable. According to one study, nine out of ten people are concerned about the current state of the environment, with 83% of those surveyed actively participating in recycling practices.s

By labeling the packaging as compostable or biodegradable, they know exactly what they need to do to dispose of it in an eco-friendly way.

There doesn’t seem to be an exact answer as to which type of packaging to choose in these two cases. It also depends on a number of factors, such as the budget of the business, the needs of the consumer and the recycling facilities available.

However, whether you choose to use biodegradable or compostable cups or bags, one of the most important things is to make sure you understand exactly the unique characteristics of each type of packaging you are using.

Packaging is essential to keep coffee safe on its journey from roasting to sweet cup of coffee. It helps ensure safe transportation, preserves flavor and aroma, extends shelf life, and, if properly processed, can also reduce waste which helps protect the environment. Stay up-to-date with the latest information on the advancements of the coffee industry at 43 Factory Coffee Roaster to become a civilized coffee drinker!