I’ve Got a Problem with Compostables

You know what gets my goat? Compostables. Like compostable cups or cutlery or trash bags or diaper wipes.

I’m going to say it. I think they’re fake news.

Sure, they seem like the better option when you’re staring at big bad plastic, but think about it. For it to compost…. you need to compost it!

Will you? As in… will you put a bunch of diaper wipes in your compost bin? With your food scraps? Or in your backyard bin? Truly…?

I call greenwashing!

Sometimes it’s intentional (hey, let’s put it on the consumer!) and sometimes it’s not (this seems like a more natural option.)

Let’s talk about how composting works

Maybe you’re thinking, it will break down in the landfill. I get that — it’s logical… smashed down stuff breaks down. That’s what I thought. It won’t (well, not in our lifetime anyway.) Composting needs air, and landfills have no air by design.

When a product is deemed compostable, it usually requires a special industrial facility to actually decompose. And then you have to find that facility.

For instance, the industrial facility that takes our compost no longer accepts anything but food and plants. So I personally have nowhere to compost these so called “compostables.” And I’m flexing those air quotes HARD.

Whether it’s a compostable fork or a “biodegradable” cup, it’s used once, then tossed. They’re single use!

Compostables can trick us into thinking we’re being more eco-friendly than we really are.

Mindset Shift: Instead of focusing on products that sound green, focus on changing habits: like buying less, using reusables, and shopping consciously.

How to Avoid Compostables:

• Don’t buy something just because it’s compostable. The question is “Can I and will I compost it?”
• Use reusables. Keep your reusable mug in your car and a set of reusable cutler in your mom bag.
• Dine in. Give yourself that IG photo worthy moment and have that latte in the to-stay mug.
• Choose items made of recycled plastic. Like our garbage bags. That’s actually useful because you’re supporting the recycled material industry, which is the whole point of recycling.

Here’s another thing you can do…. Sign up for regular newsletters from me:

I’m always working to find a balance of eco friendly practices that reduce plastics, unnecessary waste and pesky toxins in our home while maintaining my marbles, and I want to help you get there faster. I’m a pay it forward kind of girl!

Subscribe for regular tips and boosts to your eco confidence. When you do, I’ll send you a link to my favorite thing: The Easy Eco Friendly Home: 50 Room-by-Room Swaps.