Recyclability Over Biodegradability
Over the last decade, sustainable packaging options have increased to one degree or another from the introduction of original packaging innovations to modifications of existing designs that now include higher levels of sustainable components.
Along the way, biodegradability vs. recyclability became a choice, and yet the differences between the two options are not easily recalled by many people. Hopefully we can shed some light on that for you and explain our stance on the topic.
According to the U.S. Federal Trade Commission’s “Green Guides”, biodegradable is defined as a product that “will completely break down and return to nature (i.e., decompose into elements found in nature) within a reasonably short period of time after customary disposal.”
Recyclable products, on the other hand, don’t decompose but instead “can be collected, separated, or otherwise recovered from the waste stream… for reuse or use in manufacturing or assembling another item.”
For our complete line of mesh and poly/mesh bags, we have chosen to make them 100% recyclable for three main reasons:
- Recyclable materials actually use less natural resources to manufacture than biodegradable materials.
- Consumers have much easier access to recycling bins than composting bins.
- TRULY biodegradable materials cannot be recycled. When they are degraded, gasses are released, which contribute to global warming.
The even better news? The strength and beauty of our bags are not compromised by their recyclable plastic components. From function to design, you can feel good about the packaging you are putting your produce in with Fox Packaging. Learn more about all the bags we have to offer here!
