As sustainability regulations tighten and consumer expectations rise, home compostable and biodegradable packaging has become a critical step forward for brands seeking authentic environmental impact. This category sits just below reusable packaging in the sustainability hierarchy, offering a powerful combination of performance, consumer appeal, and EPR-friendly scoring.
Why Compostable Packaging Is Rising in Demand
Home compostable and biodegradable materials are surging in popularity as businesses explore packaging that returns to nature safely and efficiently. Unlike traditional plastics, these materials break down through natural processes and leave behind no microplastics. They also earn strong marks under emerging EPR frameworks, which reward packaging that is easy to reintegrate into natural or municipal systems.
Consumers increasingly want packaging they can dispose of at home without guilt. Home compostable packaging meets this need seamlessly. Biodegradable options, while slightly different in performance and breakdown requirements, offer another pathway for businesses transitioning away from fossil-fuel-based plastics.
Home compostable and biodegradable materials are surging in popularity as businesses explore packaging that returns to nature safely and efficiently. Unlike traditional plastics, these materials break down through natural processes and leave behind no microplastics. They also earn strong marks under emerging EPR frameworks, which reward packaging that is easy to reintegrate into natural or municipal systems.
Consumers increasingly want packaging they can dispose of at home without guilt. Home compostable packaging meets this need seamlessly. Biodegradable options, while slightly different in performance and breakdown requirements, offer another pathway for businesses transitioning away from fossil-fuel-based plastics.
Arnold Packaging offers a wide range of plant-based, compostable, and biodegradable materials designed to reduce environmental impact while maintaining shipping performance. These include:
Compostable Mailers and Bags
Ideal for apparel brands, subscription services, and DTC shippers aiming to eliminate plastic in their packaging stream.
Starch-Based or Plant-Fiber Biodegradable Void Fill
A naturally derived alternative to foam or plastic fillers, designed for fragile items and eco-conscious customer experiences.
These solutions are well suited for eco-focused retailers, DTC brands, bowl-and-box shipper formats, and any business ready to transition toward greener shipping practices.
How Compostable Packaging Fits Into the Sustainability Hierarchy
While compostable packaging is not as durable or endlessly reusable as returnable packaging systems, it represents a significant leap forward from conventional single-use plastics. In the sustainability hierarchy, it falls directly beneath reusable packaging due to its ability to break down naturally and avoid contributing to long-term waste streams.
If you are exploring which type of sustainable packaging is right for your business, check out our companion article on Reusable Packaging – The Gold Standard of Sustainability, which outlines how closed-loop systems and long-life materials score highest under both environmental and regulatory frameworks.
Explore Your Compostable Options
Ready to reduce microplastics, delight your customers, and strengthen your sustainability profile?
Contact Arnold Packaging to explore compostable and biodegradable packaging solutions that align with your products, customers, and sustainability goals.
📞 855-276-6537
📧 info@arnoldpackaging.com
Laura Cadden
Arnold Packaging
Protecting Your Product & Your Profit
