“Biodegradable” and “compostable” are often used interchangeably, but they do not mean the same thing.
Understanding product labels, Australian composting standards and correct disposal methods can help you make more informed environmental choices. Here are five common myths about biodegradable and compostable products.
Myth 1: Biodegradable and Compostable Mean the Same Thing
They are related, but they are not interchangeable.
Biodegradable means that microorganisms can break down a material. However, the term alone may not specify:
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How long decomposition will take
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What environmental conditions are required
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Whether the material has been independently tested
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What may remain after it breaks down
Certified compostable products must meet specific requirements for biodegradation, disintegration and environmental safety under defined composting conditions.
A simple rule to remember is:
Compostable products are biodegradable, but biodegradable products are not necessarily compostable.
Myth 2: Every Compostable Product Can Go into Home Compost
Some compostable products require a commercial composting facility.
In Australia, the two main compostability standards are:
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AS 5810: Suitable for well-managed home-composting conditions
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AS 4736: Suitable for commercial or industrial composting facilities
Commercial facilities use controlled temperatures, moisture and processing conditions that are difficult to reproduce at home. A product certified only to AS 4736 may not break down effectively in a backyard compost system.
Look for the Australasian Bioplastics Association certification logo and check whether the product is certified for home or commercial composting.
Myth 3: Compostable Products Belong in the Recycling Bin
Compostable plastic alternatives should generally not be placed in conventional recycling bins.
Although they may look like ordinary plastic, compostable materials are designed to behave differently at the end of their useful life. Mixing them with recyclable plastic can interfere with recycling processes and contaminate otherwise recyclable materials.
Always follow:
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The disposal instructions on the packaging
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Your local council’s recycling rules
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Your FOGO or organics provider’s guidelines
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Your commercial waste provider’s requirements
Certification does not guarantee that every council or composting facility will accept the product.
Myth 4: Compostable Bags Disappear Immediately
Composting is a biological process—not an instant one.
How quickly a product breaks down depends on:
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Temperature
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Moisture
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Oxygen
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Microbial activity
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Product thickness
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Compost management
Even certified home-compostable products require an active and properly maintained composting environment.
A compostable bag stored in a cool, dry cupboard remains usable because the heat, moisture and microorganisms required for composting are not present.
Myth 5: Compostable Products Are the Only Change We Need
Compostable alternatives can support more responsible consumption, but they are only one part of the solution.
Whenever practical:
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Reduce unnecessary consumption
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Reuse durable products
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Recycle accepted materials correctly
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Separate food and garden organics
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Choose certified alternatives when disposable products are necessary
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Follow the correct disposal instructions
Bonnie Bio compostable products are designed for situations where households and businesses still require practical disposable items, including bin liners, dog poop bags and food-handling products.
The goal is not to encourage unnecessary consumption. It is to provide certified alternatives for commonly used disposable plastic products.
How Can You Identify a Certified Compostable Product?
Do not rely solely on words such as “natural”, “eco-friendly”, “green” or “biodegradable”.
Instead, check for:
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Recognised compostability certification
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The relevant Australian Standard
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A certification or licence number
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Clear disposal instructions
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Information about the required composting conditions
The Australasian Bioplastics Association independently verifies products against AS 5810 and AS 4736. The two standards have different testing requirements, so certification under one standard does not automatically establish compliance with the other.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is biodegradable better than plastic?
Not necessarily. “Biodegradable” alone does not explain the required conditions, decomposition period or what remains afterward. Look for independently verified certification.
Can home-compostable products go into a FOGO bin?
Only when your local council or waste provider accepts them. Compostable certification does not guarantee acceptance in every collection system.
Can compostable products go into landfill?
They can be disposed of in general waste when required, but landfill conditions may not allow them to break down as intended.
What is the difference between AS 5810 and AS 4736?
AS 5810 applies to home-compostable products. AS 4736 applies to products intended for controlled commercial composting facilities.
Better Information Supports Better Choices
Consumers should not need a science degree to understand an environmental claim.
Read beyond the marketing headline, look for recognised certification and check the recommended disposal method. Clear information makes it easier to choose products that suit both your practical needs and available waste systems.
Bonnie Bio offers certified compostable alternatives for Australian homes, workplaces and hospitality businesses.
Explore the Bonnie Bio compostable range and make your next disposable product a more considered choice.
