It's clear that we all care about the plastic trash that is polluting our planet, and as consumers we try to choose products that lessen plastic waste. But, it's easy to be misled by terms like biodegradable, compostable, or recycled, especially when it comes to single-use plastic bin bags and dog waste bags.
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How can we be sure which are the most environmentally-friendly garbage bags? Is biodegradable the same as compostable? Are biodegradable bags really biodegradable? And, can I compost the bin bags at home?
This blog post delves into the different types of bin bags on the market. From petrochemical plastic bags to compostable, and ocean plastic bags. We aim to clear the murky waters around "eco-friendly" claims and guide you toward the most sustainable choices.
We want to suggest straight up that the most environmentally friendly option is no bag at all! Ideally, we would aim to manage household waste without the use of any bin liners, emphasising waste reduction, and proper sorting of recyclables and compostables. Composting your food scraps at home with a Bokashi, worm farm or compost heap is brilliant, and helps avoid the need for single use bags.
Even with the most eco of bin bag choices, the production of the bag still required non-renewable resources and energy, then carbon emissions to transport the materials around the world and to your home.
However, there are times that we need to use a bag, and on those occasions, you want to know: what are best bin bags for the environment?
Ubiquitous, single-use plastic bags are causing immense harm to nature. Produced from petroleum, a non-renewable resource, these bags are designed for short-term use, but persist in the environment for centuries, strangling turtles, marine life, birds and other animals, or slowly fragmenting into micro-plastics that wreak havoc on wildlife and ecosystems, and even enter the human food chain.
Single use petrochemical plastic bags offer no real environmental benefits; their utility lies solely in their convenience and low production cost. Many countries in the world, including Australia, have introduced bags on plastic bags of varying kinds.
Their production consumes precious non-renewable resources, and contributes to greenhouse gas emissions and global warming. Their use and disposal causes litter, and long-term environmental contamination, as they do not biodegrade but break down into harmful microplastics.
* Verdict: AVOID *
Marketable as a greener alternative, degradable or oxo-degradable bags are actually a misleading option. These bags contain additives that cause them to break down more quickly than conventional plastics into smaller pieces. However, they still consist of petrochemicals and are designed to fragment, not fully biodegrade, complicating their disposal and potential environmental benefits.
Degradable bags are bad for the environment. They degrade into microplastics rather than biodegrading completely, leading to environmental and health risks. Many regions, including the European Union, have banned these bags due to their deceptive nature and harmful environmental impact.
* Verdict: AVOID *
Biodegradable bin bags, often touted as an eco-friendly solution, come with their own set of complexities. These bags are made from petrochemicals, corn starch and bioplastics, which can theoretically break down naturally via living microorganisms. Yet, without the right conditions, their environmental promise remains unfulfilled.
The term "biodegradable" often sows confusion when used to describe plastics, as it can encompass a range of materials with varying environmental impacts. For instance, detergent sheets advertised as biodegradable are made from polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), a plastic that disintegrates in water but may not fully biodegrade into harmless substances depending on environmental conditions.
Are biodegradable bin bags eco friendly? In ideal conditions, they may decompose into natural elements within a reasonable timeframe, reducing landfill mass. However, the process still takes time and depends on how the biodegradable plastic gets discarded.
Are biodegradable bin bags bad for the environment? Biodegradable bags require specific environmental conditions to decompose effectively, conditions that are not typically met in landfills or natural settings. Misleading labels have led some countries to ban these bags due to the confusion they cause among consumers.
Even though they are marketed as biodegradable, these plastics can still be made from fossil fuels, which are harmful to the environment in their extraction and processing.
* Verdict: LIKELY GREENWASHING *
With a promise of turning waste into compost, compostable bin bags are gaining traction as a sustainable option.
Compostable bin bags are made from a mix of fossil-fuel derived ingredients (i.e. PBAT polybutylene adipate terephthalate that is derived from coal), plant polymers such as PLA, and plant starch (often corn, wood chips).
Thanks to the research by Biome Ambasador @simplyplasticfreeau, I recently became aware that there are no 100% corn starch or plant-based plastic bags on the market, despite what their marketing suggests.
When we asked the brands for the full information on their ingredients they were quick to provide the full details, which we commend.
In order for the bag material to hold together, fossil fuel based ingredients are needed, such as PBAT, CPE, HDPE, LDPE, OPP, CPP, or EPE.
Certified Home Compostable bags and mailers generally contain only around 20% plant-derived materials, their main ingredient being PBAT. According to the manufacturers, despite being derived from coal, PBAT is a fully biodegradable polymer. Meaning that when it's buried in soil, it breaks down completely and leaves no toxic residues behind. Ironically, it is the very use of a fossil fuel ingredient that makes them decompose more quickly, and a supposed alternative to petroluem-derived plastic!
There are two standards of compostability to be aware of:
Industrial compostable - the bags will only compost in an appropriate industrial facility with very high temperatures for a long period of time. PLA, which is a plastic made from plants, usually can only be composted industrially. Most Biocups, dental floss, toothbrushes, and fairly thick "bio plastic" products are PLA.
Home compostable - bags designed to break down at lower temperatures, which are achievable in home compost setups.
This is a complicated question!
They are ok, when they can be completely broken down by biological processes in appropriate composting facilities, leaving no toxic residue. But in reality, how often does this actually happen? ie. how many bags are composted at home and how many go to landfill? Sending a biodegradable or compostable bag to landfill is not a good option, as they generate the greenhouse gas, methane, just like all organic matter in landfill.
In respect of the ingredients being used: Mining non-renewable resources such as coal and other petrochemicals to make a single-use bag, is not positive for the environment.
In regions without access to industrial composting facilities, these bags cannot be processed correctly and may end up as litter, or in landfill, or messing up the recycling system. The same goes for other bio plastics such as "bio cups".
In Australia, compostable bags are often not permitted in FOGO bin systems due to differing decomposition rates compared to other organic waste.
Verdict: LOWEST IMPACT CHOICE
if properly composted at home
Biome offers two brands of home compostable bin bags, both of which are made from coal-derived PBAT, plant based polymers, and corn starch.
Note, that even though these bags are made from petrochemicals, according to the testing by authorities, they biodegrade fully in home compost. We are not able to verify whether that is true; and it is uncertain how they will biodegrade in the unpredictable natural environment.
BioBag. Made in Australia Biobag bin liners and dog waste bags
Recycled plastic bin liners reuse materials that would otherwise contribute to landfill volume. Made from previously used plastic products, these bags are processed to create new bag materials, potentially reducing the demand for new plastics.
However, they often contain only a small percentage of recycled material, and the marketing surrounding their content, especially claims about "ocean plastic," can sometimes be misleading.
Ocean plastic is touted as material recovered from oceans or destined for ocean disposal, but these claims are not always substantiated.
Brands use some trickery calling plastic collected a long way from the ocean "ocean bound"... and then give the impression it came from the ocean!
Are recycled plastic bin bags good? Using recycled plastic bags reduces the need for virgin plastic production, conserving resources and energy. This process also helps to divert plastic waste from landfills and potentially reduces environmental pollution.
Are recycled plastic rubbish bags bad? While they are a better option than virgin plastic bags, recycled plastic bags still contribute to the plastic pollution problem if not properly disposed of.
They require significant energy for the recycling process, and the quality of the recycled material can degrade after multiple cycles, limiting their recyclability over time.
Furthermore, the marketing of these bags sometimes includes misleading claims about their environmental benefits, such as the percentage of recycled content or the source of the recycled materials, which can confuse consumers about their true ecological impact.
Verdict: AVOID
The most environmentally friendly option might be no bag at all! This approach involves managing waste without the use of any bin liners, emphasising waste reduction, and proper sorting of recyclables and compostables.
For guidance on how to "go naked" with your bin, see our blog post here How To Live Without Plastic Bin Liners.
Verdict: BEST CHOICE
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By choosing the right type of bag—or no bag at all—consumers can play a crucial role in mitigating the impact of their waste on the environment. Each option has its advantages and drawbacks, and the best choice often depends on local waste management infrastructure.
Because We Care contains other products and information you need, so please check it out.
If you still prefer a plastic bag to line your rubbish bin, the best option is to choose a certified home compostable bag and ensure that it is actually composted at home. Remembering that non renewable resources such as coal were used to make the bag, sending a home compostable bin bag to landfill is of little net benefit.
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To make doing business with us easy we’ve provided answers to questions commonly asked by our customers. If you need further info please don’t hesitate to contact us.
Your order will be processed as quickly as possible. Orders ship from Melbourne and, depending where you are in Australia, you can expect your order to arrive within 2 – 5 working days.
Where will my order be shipped from?You order will be shipped directly from our third party logistics provider in Melbourne, Victoria.
How do I arrange a return?All products sold on our website are covered by our Returns and Refund Policy. If you have damaged, faulty or incorrect goods please contact us and we will respond as soon as possible.
How much does shipping cost?Shipping will be calculated at checkout and will be determined by the size, weight of your order as well as distance of delivery (product is shipped from Melbourne).
Do you deliver to PO Box addresses?No, we do not deliver to PO Box addresses. Please provide a valid physical shipping address when placing your order.
The Ecopack range of products originated in New Zealand. Our head office is located in Auckland but we also have staff in Sydney and Melbourne. We have third party logistics in Melbourne, Australia.
Where are your products made?Different Ecopack products are made in different places. We have carefully audited manufacturing facilities throughout Asia. Many of our compostable products are manufactured in China, while our cotton products originate in India, and our recycled ocean-bound material comes from Indonesia. We also have backup suppliers for many of our products to ensure that we always maintain high quality and secure supply.
Do you have a bin liner to fit my rubbish bin?Yes, Ecopack bin liners are suitable for a range of household kitchen bins as well as commercial bin sizes. Our ranges cover everything from small 7L caddies up to extra-large 240L wheelie bins. To give you an idea, standard pull-out or under-bench bins are often 27L and stand-alone domestic kitchen bins are 36L. Your typical garage bin or rubbish sacks are 60 – 80L.
Can my brand be printed on your eco-products?If you’re interested in creating white label or custom branded eco products please contact us. You will be required to order bulk quantities but we can manage the whole process for you - from design to delivery.
Our compostable bags are made with GMO-free corn starch, PLA and PBAT. This compostable ‘bioplastic’ material is designed to degrade in moist conditions and return to carbon dioxide and water without leaving harmful residues behind. Our compostable products are certified to strict international standards and we go so far as to use non-toxic inks in the printing on these products.
How long do they take to compost?Compostable bags will take approximately 90-180 days to decompose depending on the composting environment. Industrial/commercial composting is typically quicker than home composting for two main reasons:
1) temperatures reached inside a home composting bin is usually only a few centigrade degrees higher than the outside temperature, and this is true for short time periods (in industrial composting, the temperatures reach 50°C – with peaks of 60-70°C – for a number of months).
2) home composting bins are managed by everyday people and the composting conditions might not always be ideal (in contrast, industrial composting plants are managed by qualified personnel and kept under ideal working conditions).
Bioplastic is slightly different to the traditional plastic you may have used to line your bin in the past. It is designed to break down! To avoid disappointment, please change your liner every 2-3 days, avoid excessive moisture, avoid sharp objects, and store them in a cool dry place (avoid temperatures over 19 degrees celsius). Check the date of manufacture printed on the label and use within 12 months from this date.
Is the ink used on bin bags safe or toxic?We only use water-based non-toxic inks when we print on Ecopack products. Water-based inks are more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional oil-based inks.
What is the shelf life of compostable bags and consumables?Ecopack compostable products have a shorter shelf life than traditional oil-based packaging. You are instructed to use your compostable bags within 12 months of manufacture date. That said, if stored correctly, many of these products will last 12-24 months. Store your compostable products in a cool, dry area out of direct sunlight.
Are compostable bags strong enough?Ecopack compostable bags are designed to withstand the weight carried by a similar sized traditional plastic bags. They have been constructed with extra microns to prevent tearing.
Can these compostable liners be used for commercial use?Yes, we have a range of sizes designed with commercial bins in mind. In particular, the 27L, 36L, 60L, 80L, 140L and 240L bin liners may be suitable for commercial operations.
Our compostable bags are made with GMO-free corn starch, PLA and PBAT. This compostable ‘bioplastic’ material is designed to degrade in moist conditions and return to carbon dioxide and water without leaving harmful residues in the process. Our compostable products are certified to strict international standards and we go so far as to use non-toxic inks in the printing on these products.
Our poop bags come in different ranges, made from different materials. Which you choose will depend on how you plan to dispose of them. If you have a home poop compost (or kerbside collection that accepts pet waste) then choose Ecopack Home Compostable Poop Bags. If you’re likely to throw your used poop bags in a public rubbish bin that’s destined for landfill, then choose Ecopack Ocean Plastic Poop Bags.
What are compostable poop bags made from?Our compostable poop bags contain natural corn starch bio-resins, PLA and PBAT. In moist conditions they will decompose to carbon dioxide and water without leaving harmful residues in the process. They are certified to strict international standards.
How do I dispose of compostable poop bags?Compostable products are designed to be composted either at home or by industrial composting. If your local commercial composting facility accepts them, send them there. Otherwise, compost them at home in a dedicated pet waste composting system (don’t use this compost on edible plants). Compostable bags are not designed to be flushed (pet waste can upset water treatment systems) or sent to landfill (where they will be hindered from breaking down as intended).
How long do they take to compost?Compostable poop bags will take approximately 90-180 days to decompose depending on the composting environment. Industrial composting is typically quicker than home composting thanks to higher temperatures and expert management ensuring optimum composting conditions.
Are compostable poop bags flushable?No. As a general rule, stay away from flushing your dog’s poop with or without a bag. It really depends on what water treatment plant your waste goes to, but flushing dog poop can upset water balance due to the high levels of BOD (biological oxygen deprivation).
What is the shelf life of compostable poop bags?Our compostable products have a shorter shelf life than traditional oil-based packaging. You are instructed to use your compostable poop bags within 12 months of manufacture date. That said, if stored correctly, they’re likely to last much longer. Store your compostable products in a cool, dry area out of direct sunlight.
Ocean-bound plastic (OBP) is post-consumer trash that has been recovered from coastal areas. 80% of plastic in the ocean comes from land, so by collecting plastic waste from waterways, coastlines and riverbanks (within 50km of the shore) we're able to prevent that flow and help protect the ocean.
What are ocean plastic bags made from?All Ecopack Ocean-Bound Plastic Bin Liners are made with ocean-bound plastic. But we have two ranges. The premium range, which you might see in the supermarket, contains 60%ocean-bound plastic (the remaining 40% is regular virgin plastic needed for strength). The industrial range (bulk packed and low cost for commercial use) contains 20% ocean-bound plastic plus another 30% regular recycled plastic.
Does it make a difference to the environment?Like all sustainability measures, every little bit helps. Every roll of Ecopack 60% Ocean Plastic Bin Liners that you buy saves the equivalent of approximately 4x 1L plastic bottles from ending up in our oceans. Using OBP in our products means that we are intercepting plastic waste at the source, putting less reliance on virgin plastics, reducing the flow of pollution headed offshore, protecting sea life, and supporting local communities.
Why use ocean plastic?The ocean needs our help. Plastic waste is choking our oceans, killing marine life and threatening ecosystems. But each one of us can make a difference by making smart consumer choices.
Where is the ocean-bound plastic collected from?We're recycling ocean-bound plastic that’s collected from beaches and shorelines in South East Asia (currently from Indonesia). These areas have terrible marine pollution and little structured waste management. Regardless of where the raw OBP material comes from, if allowed to flow into the ocean it's a problem for all of us!
How do I dispose of my waste on ocean plastic bags?These bin liners are designed to carry general waste destined for landfill. By using an ocean recycled bag you're being part of the solution, enabling the prevention of further marine plastic pollution.
Can we be sure that these bags are helping the ocean?Our ocean plastic bin liners carry the SEArcular stamp. SEArcular is an ocean bound plastic initiative by Greencore (a global recycling group). The entire supply chain is audited and traceable - from the waste pickers on the beach to the plastic suppliers.
How big is the marine plastic problem?8 million tons of plastic ends up in our oceans every year, which accounts for approximately 80% of marine debris. It is predicated that at current rate of pollution there will be more plastic than fish in the sea by .
Please be specific about what you want. It’s easiest if you supply us with as much information as you can upfront, including the bag design and your branding art file.
• What do you want to achieve with these bags?
• How many do you need?
• When do you need delivery?
Once we know your requirements, and have seen the art file, we’ll put together a quote for your consideration. If you have questions at any stage, contact us and we’ll talk you through your options.
If you’re after your own bespoke style, unique colour, size, material and branding, please us with a precise description of what you wish to achieve. Lead times are typically 10-14 weeks depending on the product specifications and transit time (sea or air freight). We can sometimes provide branded bags in as little as 30-days with express air freight, but this will incur a greater cost.
Submitting your artworkSubmit your logo or design via . Any format will be accepted for a quote. But for production, we prefer vector artwork in EPS or PDF format (we will also accept AI or PSD files). Please ensure all text is outlined. If you need graphic design support, we can help at a nominal charge. We will provide print-ready proofs for your approval before proceeding.
Order confirmation, deposit, and proofOnce you accept our quote, we’ll raise a sales order to confirm details and delivery. Please ensure your sales order includes a valid physical shipping address (we do not deliver to PO Boxes).
A deposit of 40% is required to put your bags into production. 100% payment is required before final delivery.
We will provide a digital proof prior to production—be sure to check your artwork proof carefully as you will incur additional charges for changes made after confirmation. Physical samples are available on bulk overseas orders on request for a fee.
Screen-printing – best for simple designs with a few block colours. It is the most economical way to brand your bags. Please note that screen printing is not ideal for logos with colour gradients, halftones or fine details. It can be difficult to achieve fine detail in screen printing on rough textures like canvas or jute.
Digital print/heat transfer – great for artwork with multiple colours and fine details. It is commonly used to brand textile surfaces and bags using heat pressed onto the product to produce a permanent bond. Please note that only approximate colour matches are possible. This method is slightly more expensive than screen printing but produces great results for complex graphics or colour gradients.
Direct to garment (DTG) – this process uses specially modified inkjet technology to achieve full-colour graphics. It’s a great solution for low-quantity orders with complex, finely detailed designs. Please note that colours may be slightly muted depending on the base fabric.
Embroidery – great for achieving a hand-stitched aesthetic. Most artwork files can be digitised so the embroidery machine can recreate your artwork onto your bag.
We will quote individually depending on the kind of print process and number of bags to be printed. Two-sided printing costs more than single sided. Single colours without shade gradients are the most cost effective, with each colour there will be additional charges in the set-up costs and cost of printing of the bag.
We have reliable, eco-friendly suppliers in India and China. We have a manufacturing facility in India which allows us control the production process and SEDEX audited partner factories in China.
Are your bags ethically sourced?Yes. Both our Indian and Chinese manufacturers are SEDEX certified. We adhere to the Euro Code of Conduct which ensures fair wages and tolerates no child labour. SEDEX certification covers labour standards, health & safety, environment and business integrity.
What does GSM mean?GSM stands for “grams per square meter”. It is a unit of measurement that describes the material thickness of a bag. Many of our bags range from 80 to 100 GSM.
For more information, please visit biodegradable bin liners wholesale.