Can You Compost PLA Plastic? What Zero-Waste Shoppers Need to Know

Quick Answer

No, you cannot compost PLA plastic in your backyard compost bin. PLA requires the high heat and controlled conditions of industrial composting facilities. For home composting, choose products certified compostable, like compostable trash bags made from plant-based materials.

If you’re on a zero-waste journey, you’ve likely seen products labeled 'compostable' and wondered if you can toss them in your backyard compost. PLA plastic, a common plant-based plastic, is one of those confusing items. The truth is, not all compostable labels mean the same thing.

This myth-busting guide breaks down what PLA actually is, why it doesn’t break down in home compost, and what you can do instead. We’ll also highlight some genuinely compostable products that fit your eco-friendly lifestyle.

Understanding PLA and Compostability

PLA (polylactic acid) is made from renewable resources like corn starch or sugarcane. It looks and feels like conventional plastic, making it a popular choice for packaging and single-use items. However, its compostability is often misunderstood.

For PLA to break down, it needs to be processed in an industrial composting facility that maintains temperatures above 140°F (60°C) for an extended period. Home compost bins rarely reach these conditions, so PLA items may persist for years in your backyard pile.

Myth: 'If it’s labeled compostable, it will break down in my compost.' Verdict: Not necessarily. PLA is only compostable under specific industrial conditions. Always check the label for 'home compostable' certification if that’s your goal.

• Check for 'home compostable' certifications like TUV Austria or BPI Home Compost.
• When in doubt, contact your local compost facility to see if they accept PLA.

Biodegradable vs. Compostable: What’s the Difference?

Biodegradable and compostable are not interchangeable terms. Biodegradable means a material can be broken down by microorganisms, but it doesn’t specify time or conditions. Compostable is a stricter standard that requires the material to break down into non-toxic compost within a specific timeframe.

PLA is technically biodegradable, but only in the right environment. In a landfill, it may not break down at all, or it may release methane as it decomposes. Compostable bags, on the other hand, are designed to break down in a compost system, whether industrial or home, depending on the certification.

Myth: 'If it’s biodegradable, it’s fine to put in my compost.' Verdict: Only if it’s explicitly labeled 'home compostable'. Otherwise, treat it as regular trash.

• Look for 'compostable' labels with a certification logo, not just 'biodegradable'.
• Understand the difference to avoid greenwashing.

Zero-Waste Shopping: Choosing the Right Compostables

When shopping for zero-waste products, prioritize materials that truly break down in your compost system. Look for items made from certified compostable materials like paper, cardboard, or plant-based plastics that are marked 'home compostable'.

If you’re unsure, ask the manufacturer or check their website for compostability details. Supporting brands that provide clear disposal instructions is key to reducing waste effectively.

Myth: 'All compostable bags are the same.' Verdict: Not true. Some require industrial composting, while others are safe for home compost. Check the label.

• Choose products with clear disposal instructions on the packaging.
• Email brands if you’re unsure; they should know their product’s end-of-life.

Verdicts on PLA and Compostable Claims

• Can PLA go in home compost?: No. PLA needs industrial composting conditions (high heat) to break down. If you home compost, avoid PLA. Look for 'home compostable' certifications instead.
• Is PLA biodegradable?: Technically yes, but only in specific environments. In backyard compost or landfill, it may persist for years. Don’t rely on biodegradable claims; check for compostable certifications.
• Are compostable bags the same as PLA?: No. Many compostable bags are made from substances that break down in home compost, while PLA typically requires industrial facilities. Always read the label and choose bags marked 'home compostable'.

Compostable Products That Actually Help

• 13 Gallon Compostable Trash Bags 48-Pack: Switch from traditional plastic trash bags to these compostable 13-gallon kitchen trash bags and make a positive impact on the planet! Did you know that regular trash bags take 500 years to decompose in landfills? Choose these environmentally-friendly bags and say goodbye to harmful waste. Unlike PLA, these bags are designed for composting, so you can dispose of organic waste without adding to landfill. They’re a practical swap for your kitchen bin.
• Izzy Recyclable Mascara - Zero Waste Mascara, Vegan, Carbon Neutral: FREE GIFT WITH PURCHASE! Get 6 months of free skincare when you purchase this product. Add the 6 Months Free Skincare bundle to your cart and use code FREESKIN6MO at checkout. Bat your eyes at the world's first reusable, recyclable, closed loop, zero waste mascara! This vegan, organic, and cruelty free mascara is formulated with nourishing ingredients that lift, separate and volumize without all the gunk that can... Reducing waste isn’t just about packaging; it’s about choosing products that last or are recyclable. This mascara supports zero-waste shopping by cutting down on single-use plastic.

Understanding the difference between PLA and truly compostable materials is key to making eco-friendly choices. For home composters, stick with products explicitly labeled 'home compostable,' and don’t be fooled by vague claims. By choosing better alternatives, you can reduce waste and support a sustainable lifestyle.