Can I put compostable utensils in my compost bin?

NO ✋🏼

You can't put compostable utensils into your composting bin!

The Comprehensive Guide to Proper Disposal of Compostable Plastic Cutlery

In an eco-conscious era, there's a growing demand for innovative, sustainable solutions to everyday items. Within this wave of change, compostable cutlery has emerged as a viable alternative to traditional plastic utensils. But owning compostable cutlery is just half the process; you need to understand how to dispose of them correctly in order to actually make a positive environmental impact.

Comprehending Compostable Cutlery

Before diving into how to correctly dispose of compostable cutlery, it's essential to first understand what makes cutlery compostable. Compostable cutlery is made from materials that break down naturally over time, returning to the environment as nutrient-rich soil. However, it's essential to note that compostable cutlery can often look identical to their non-compostable counterparts, making it easy to mistake one for the other. The difference lies in the materials used and the disposal process.

Discerning Compostable from Non-Compostable Cutlery

To identify compostable cutlery, you need to look for a clear indication or label printed on the utensils. Such an indicator may say "compostable" or "biodegradable." Beware of terms such as "eco-friendly" or "green," as these do not necessarily imply that the item is compostable or biodegradable. When in doubt, it's best to dispose of utensils in the trash bin, as incorrect disposal can hamper the composting or recycling process.

Recycling vs Composting Cutlery

When disposing of any item, understanding the difference between recycling and composting is critical. While composting involves returning organic material back to the earth, recycling involves repurposing items to create new products. In the case of compostable cutlery, despite being labelled 'plastic', they should not be recycled because they are designed to break down effectively in composting environments rather than recycling facilities.

Ensuring Proper Disposal of Compostable Cutlery

Compostable cutlery should ideally be disposed of in industrial composting facilities where the ideal conditions for composting—correct temperature, moisture levels, and microbial activity—are maintained. They are not suited for backyard composting bins because these do not reach the high temperatures required for the composting of these items.

If industrial compost facilities are not available in your region, the cutlery should be disposed of in the trash. Improper composting might result in the utensils ending up in landfill anyway. Moreover, including materials erroneously in the compost bin might hinder the composting process of other items, leading to a less viable compost.

Not Just Cutlery: Disposing Other Compostable Items

As with compostable cutlery, other compostable items such as paper take-out containers, plastic cups, lids, and straws require the same level of care when disposing. These items should ideally be composted if their labels indicate as such. Otherwise, they should be placed in the trash. Food items, including fruit, vegetable scraps, coffee grounds and tea bags, can be composted, but it's best to avoid placing meat, bones, or fatty food wastes in the compost.

Success of Sustainability Lies in Correct Disposal

Compostable cutlery is a terrific solution to the plastic waste problem plaguing our environment, but their effectiveness lies heavily on correct disposal practices. By educating ourselves and spreading awareness on how to dispose of compostable items accurately, we can support the composting industry and contribute to a more sustainable, waste-free world.