Guide / Greenwashing

Five red flags on a compostable label.

A plain-language checklist for retailers before a claim reaches your shelf.

  1. "Biodegradable" with no standard. The word can be vague without a timeframe, test method or certification behind it.
  2. A logo with no licence number. A certification mark should be traceable. If there is no number, ask why.
  3. "Degradable" instead of compostable. This can point to oxo-degradable plastic, which fragments rather than properly composting.
  4. A certificate for a different company or product. The certificate should match the supplier, product type and material scope being sold to you.
  5. A material claim worded like a waste claim. Compostability usually applies to the bag material. Local rules still govern pet waste disposal.
A good supplier should welcome these questions. If the answer becomes complicated too quickly, the claim may not be ready for your shelf.
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