Help needed to uncover the truth about ‘compostable packaging’
Gardeners, allotment holders, and home composters around the world are being asked to participate in a new study that investigates the fate of compostable labelled packaging.
Compostable packaging has emerged as a response to the escalating global concern over single-use plastic products (SUPs); a major source of pollution and environmental degradation. These eco-friendly materials may hold the promise of breaking down into natural components, potentially reducing the impact of SUPs on landfills and incineration. However, consumer success with composting these alternatives varies widely, leading to confusion and scepticism. Instructions on composting can be unclear, and questions have been raised about the suitability of ‘compostable’ materials for home composting versus commercial facilities.
The study by the University of Portsmouth invites participants to share their experiences through a short survey. Researchers aim to gather insights into how individuals manage their home composting systems.
Participants will be asked about why, what and how they compost and to describe their experiences with compostable packaging. By analysing the results, researchers will be able to build a clear picture of what is going into a typical home composting system and whether compostable packaging actually breaks down at the same rate as other biodegradable waste, for example, food waste, in the composting system.
The survey is just the start of an in-depth investigation. It will be complemented by controlled laboratory experiments utilising modified dynamic respirators, which will offer a thorough screening of a variety of compostable packaging.
Anita Carey, PhD researcher in the School of Civil Engineering and Surveying at the University of Portsmouth, said: “This study marks a crucial step towards understanding the real-world fate of compostable packaging. The survey results will be instrumental in demystifying the challenges and potential of compostable packaging”.
The next phase of this study, based on survey findings and dynamic respirator experiments, will initiate field trials at The Sustainability Centre, Hampshire, UK in early 2024. These trials - conducted under ambient conditions - will evaluate the decomposition of a range of compostable packaging in various home composting systems.
The key aims of this research project are to provide comprehensive guidance to consumers of compostable packaging, development of an optimal home composting system, and inform policy on the future of compostable packaging.
PhD supervisor, Dr Muhammad Ali, Associate Professor in Materials and Environmental Innovation at the University of Portsmouth, said: “There is a global demand for developing sustainable yet low-cost solutions for alternatives to single-use plastic wastes. As more compostable packaging enters the market, there is a clear need to understand and solve the various complex mechanisms associated with the handling and treatment of these materials”.
The University of Portsmouth is home to Revolution Plastics, an interdisciplinary initiative which is working globally to end plastic pollution through inclusive, evidence-based and solutions-focused research and innovation to support the transition to a sustainable plastics future.
This study marks a crucial step towards understanding the real-world fate of compostable packaging. The survey results will be instrumental in demystifying the challenges and potential of compostable packaging.
There is a global demand for developing sustainable yet low-cost solutions for alternatives to single-use plastic wastes. As more compostable packaging enters the market, there is a clear need to understand and solve the various complex mechanisms associated with the handling and treatment of these materials.