Single-polymer structures: designing flexible packs for recycling
Mixed laminates protect products well but can't be recycled. Mono-material PE and PP structures can, if you design them properly.
Read article"Biodegradable" and "compostable" are often used as if they mean the same thing. They don't, and since the Plastic Waste Management (Amendment) Rules, 2024, Indian law treats them differently. Getting this right protects your brand from misleading claims.
The difference in one line
Every compostable plastic is biodegradable, but not every biodegradable plastic is compostable.
- Compostable plastics break down into compost under specific conditions, typically industrial or large municipal composting facilities with controlled heat, moisture and microbes.
- Biodegradable plastics, under the 2024 amendment, must degrade through biological processes in a specified environment such as soil or landfill, and must not leave microplastics behind.
Certification and labelling
Manufacturers of compostable or biodegradable carry bags and commodities must obtain a certificate from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) before marketing or selling them, and products must be marked and labelled as the rules require. For food-contact uses, FSSAI's packaging regulations also apply.
The test methods for proving "no microplastics" are still being worked out, and CPCB has been strict about certificates. Ask any material supplier for the current CPCB certificate and the standard their material was tested to before you print a claim.
Claims to avoid
- "Eco-friendly" or "green" with no evidence behind it.
- "Biodegradable" on a pack that only breaks down in industrial composting.
- "Home compostable" unless the material is certified for home composting.
- "100% plastic-free" on a pack with a plastic coating or sealant layer.
Where compostable flexible packaging works well
- Dry foods with short to medium shelf life, such as tea, coffee, snacks and dry fruits.
- Products where the pack is likely to end up in organic waste.
- Brands selling to institutions or markets with composting collection.
It is harder for high-moisture, oily or long shelf-life products, because most compostable films have weaker barrier than conventional laminates. Our PLA guide covers the trade-offs.
How we can help
We offer biodegradable and compostable pouches and rolls, with materials and certification needs confirmed per project. Ask us about a trial.
General information, not legal advice. Check the latest CPCB guidance before making on-pack claims.
