Compostable packaging
Compostable Packaging: Certification and Selection Guide
Published 2026-02-10 · Updated 2026-09-18
A guide to choosing compostable packaging by product suitability, certification pathway, evidence, customer instructions and end-of-life limits.
TL;DR
Compostable packaging is packaging supported for a defined composting pathway under specified conditions. Select it by confirming product protection, the exact certification scope, whether the claim is home or industrial compostability, and the realistic customer disposal route.
Part of the Custom Compostable Packaging Guide. Read the full guide for checklists, decision frameworks, and FAQs.
Key takeaways
- Compostable is a defined claim, not a synonym for biodegradable or plastic-free.
- Home and industrial compostability require different evidence.
- Certification must cover the relevant material or product specification.
- Certification does not guarantee universal collection or acceptance.
- Disposal wording and certification marks must match the supported pathway.
What does compostable packaging mean?
A compostable claim describes performance under defined composting conditions and should be supported by appropriate evidence. It does not mean the packaging will break down quickly in every natural environment.
Compostable packaging may still contain polymeric materials. Avoid using compostable, biodegradable, bio-based and plastic-free as if they meant the same thing.
How do home and industrial pathways differ?
| Pathway | Evidence examples | Customer implication |
|---|---|---|
| Home composting | AS 5810 or OK compost HOME where applicable | Use only where evidence covers the exact packaging; home systems vary |
| Industrial composting | AS 4736 or OK compost INDUSTRIAL where applicable | Requires a suitable accepted collection and facility route |
How should compostable packaging be selected?
- Confirm the product's protection and barrier requirements.
- Choose the packaging format and complete construction.
- Review certification evidence for the exact supplied specification.
- Map the principal customer markets and realistic composting routes.
- Approve marks and disposal wording before production.
- Retain the specification and evidence used for the claim.
What does Zero Pack supply?
Zero Pack is a specialist B2B supplier of made-to-order custom compostable packaging. All packaging marketed and sold by Zero Pack as compostable is certified compostable packaging.
The applicable certification and material depend on the selected packaging and specification. Manufacturer-held evidence may be provided on request after the specification is confirmed.
Sources and further reading
Planning custom compostable packaging?
Explore the available options, use the wider packaging guide or share your packed-product, artwork, quantity and delivery requirements for a tailored recommendation.
Related guides
FAQ
No. Compostable is a more specific claim tied to defined conditions and evidence. Biodegradable on its own may not explain where, how or how quickly breakdown occurs.
Do not give that instruction unless separate evidence supports home compostability for the exact packaging.
No. Acceptance and collection vary. Industrially compostable items need a suitable local route, and customer instructions should preserve that limitation.
All packaging marketed and sold by Zero Pack as compostable is certified compostable packaging. The exact certification depends on the selected product and material.
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