Why Compostables Aren't the Best Solution for Takeaway: The Case for Reusables In the quest for sustainability and facing new plastic bans, many businesses have turned to compostable packaging for their takeaway services. While this shift is well-intentioned, it's important to consider that compostables aren't the ultimate solution. Here's why reusables might be a better choice: 🌿 Environmental Impact: Compostable items still require resources to produce and transport, and they often end up in landfills where they decompose anaerobically, releasing methane, a potent greenhouse gas. Reusables, on the other hand, reduce the demand for single-use items and can be used many times over, significantly cutting down on waste and resource consumption. 🔄 Circular Economy: Reusables promote a circular economy by encouraging the continuous use of materials. This system not only minimises waste but also conserves natural resources and energy, contributing to a more sustainable and resilient economy. 💡 Consumer Education: Compostables can be confusing for consumers. Many don't realise that these items often require industrial composting facilities to break down properly. Without proper disposal infrastructure, compostables can contaminate recycling streams or languish in landfills. Reusables simplify the process, making it easier for consumers to make environmentally friendly choices. 💧 Water and Energy Use: While washing reusables does require water and energy, studies show that the environmental benefits of reducing single-use waste outweigh these costs. 📈 Brand Image and Loyalty: Businesses that adopt reusable programs can enhance their brand image by demonstrating a genuine commitment to sustainability. Customers are increasingly valuing eco-friendly practices, and offering reusables can foster loyalty and attract environmentally conscious consumers. While compostables are a step in the right direction, reusables offer a more sustainable and impactful solution for takeaway packaging. By investing in reusables, businesses can play a crucial role in reducing waste, conserving resources, and educating consumers about sustainable practices. What is your opinion on compostables? #Sustainability #ReusablePackaging #EcoFriendly #CircularEconomy #Takeaway #GreenBusiness
Mark Russell
5mo
The evidence for reusables is overwhelming. The problem is with the vendors, they refuse to use them. Unless councils or states put in laws to stop the use of single use takeaway items, nothing will change. Byron Shire has already implemented the laws on council land and the impact has been immediate. Yes, there are 1 or 2 teething problems but everyone is working to find a solution. The only real problem is a suitable Pizza box for a 9" pizza at an event. That's about it. You will never get the vendors to agree with out a stick as a carrot will not work.
🌻 Communications | Susan McKinnon Foundation
5moEspecially true with the new Recycling Victoria proposed standards for FOGO, in which compostables won't be accepted in council bins. The gap between the rate at which businesses provide bioplastic or compostable packaging vs the rate at which they are successfully composted will blow up if/when home composting is the only option for them. If compostables are going to landfill instead of actually being composted, IMO businesses buying them and consumers using them are just greenwashing themselves. Yes they are somewhat better than single use plastics but that's a pretty low bar to meet.