February 2023 - PLAbottles.eu - biodegradable bottle manufacturer - Compostable bottles

Biodegradable vs. Compostable

Posted on February 6, 2023February 24, 2023 by Gerco

Biodegradable vs. Compostable

Biodegradable and compostable are two terms that are often used interchangeably, but they actually have different meanings and implications. Understanding the differences between these two terms is important for making informed decisions about waste management and reducing the impact of human activities on the environment.

Biodegradable

Biodegradable refers to materials that can be broken down into natural elements by microorganisms, such as bacteria and fungi, over a period of time. This process is called biodegradation. The biodegradation of organic matter is a natural process that occurs in the environment, and it helps to recycle nutrients back into the ecosystem.

The time it takes for a material to biodegrade depends on several factors, including the type of material, the environment, and the presence of microorganisms. For example, a piece of fruit will biodegrade much more quickly than a plastic bag. Some biodegradable materials, such as paper, can break down in just a few weeks, while others, such as synthetic materials, can take hundreds of years to biodegrade.

Compostable

Compostable refers to materials that can be broken down into natural elements and used as a nutrient-rich soil amendment, commonly referred to as compost. Composting is a process of controlled biodegradation that can take place in a compost bin, compost pile, or composting facility.

To be considered compostable, a material must meet certain criteria. It must biodegrade into carbon dioxide, water, and organic matter in a short period of time, typically within 90 days. It must also break down into a compost that is safe for plants and the environment, free of harmful chemicals and pathogens.

Compostable materials include food waste, yard waste, and some biodegradable plastics. Compostable plastics are made from renewable resources, such as corn starch or sugarcane, and are designed to break down into compost under specific conditions.

Differences between Biodegradable and Compostable

The main difference between biodegradable and compostable is the end result of the biodegradation process. Biodegradable materials can break down into natural elements over time, but they may not necessarily be transformed into compost. Compostable materials, on the other hand, are designed to break down into compost and contribute to the growth of plants.

Another important difference is the time frame in which biodegradation occurs. Biodegradable materials can take a long time to break down, while compostable materials are designed to biodegrade in a short period of time, typically within 90 days.

The environmental impact of biodegradable and compostable materials also differs. Biodegradable materials can release methane, a potent greenhouse gas, as they break down. Compostable materials, on the other hand, release carbon dioxide, a less potent greenhouse gas, and contribute to the growth of plants.

It’s also important to note that not all biodegradable materials are compostable, and not all compostable materials are biodegradable. For example, some biodegradable plastics can take hundreds of years to biodegrade, while some compostable materials, such as yard waste, are not biodegradable.

Conclusion

Biodegradable and compostable are two terms that are often used interchangeably, but they have distinct meanings and implications for waste management and the environment. Biodegradable refers to materials that can be broken down into natural elements over time, while compostable refers to materials that can be transformed into compost and used to support plant growth.

Let's change the world.Use plant-based plastic

PLA and anaerobic digestion

Posted on February 6, 2023February 24, 2023 by Gerco

Polylactic Acid (PLA) is a biodegradable, bio-based polymer made from fermented plant sugars. The use of PLA as a feedstock for anaerobic digestion to produce biogas has gained attention as a way to reduce waste and produce renewable energy.

Anaerobic digestion is a biological process that occurs in the absence of oxygen, where microorganisms break down organic matter to produce biogas. The biogas produced through this process consists of methane (CH4) and carbon dioxide (CO2) and can be used as a renewable energy source.

Benefits of using PLA in anaerobic digestion include:

1- Sustainability: PLA is made from renewable resources, and its use in anaerobic digestion helps reduce waste and conserve resources.
2- Reduction of greenhouse gas emissions: Methane produced from anaerobic digestion is a potent greenhouse gas, and the use of PLA helps reduce these emissions by replacing non-renewable energy sources.
3- Energy production: The biogas produced from anaerobic digestion can be used to generate electricity and heat, providing a renewable energy source.
4- Increased yield: The addition of PLA to anaerobic digestion systems can increase the overall yield of biogas, as it is a readily biodegradable material.

However, there are also some negatives associated with the use of PLA in anaerobic digestion:
1- Processing issues: PLA can be difficult to process, as it has a low solubility in water and is resistant to degradation.
2- Cost: The cost of producing PLA can be higher than other feedstocks, and the added processing costs can also make the overall process more expensive.
3- Contamination: The addition of PLA to anaerobic digestion systems can cause contamination if not properly managed, affecting the overall yield and quality of the biogas produced.

The yield of biogas produced per kilogram of PLA can vary based on the type of anaerobic digestion system used, the conditions in the digester, and the quality of the PLA. However, studies have shown that the addition of PLA to anaerobic digestion systems can increase the overall yield of biogas by 10-15%.

When adding PLA to anaerobic digestion systems, it is important to consider the following factors:
– Compatibility: The type of anaerobic digestion system used should be compatible with the characteristics of PLA, such as its low solubility and resistance to degradation.
– Feedstock preparation: The PLA should be properly prepared before being added to the anaerobic digestion system, as contamination can affect the overall yield and quality of the biogas produced.
– Monitoring and control: The conditions in the anaerobic digestion system should be carefully monitored and controlled to ensure that the best conditions are maintained for biogas production.

In conclusion, the use of PLA in anaerobic digestion to produce biogas can provide several benefits, including increased sustainability and reduced greenhouse gas emissions. However, it is important to consider the negatives and properly manage the addition of PLA to ensure the best results. The yield of biogas produced per kilogram of PLA can vary, but the addition of PLA can increase the overall yield of biogas.

Let's change the world.Use plant-based plastic

PLA as a feed ingredient for dairy cattle

Posted on February 6, 2023February 24, 2023 by Gerco

Article about study: “Assessment of polylactic acid as a feed ingredient for dairy cattle.” – This study, published in the journal “Animal Feed Science and Technology,”

Polylactic Acid (PLA) is a biodegradable and renewable thermoplastic derived from natural sources such as cornstarch, sugarcane, and potatoes. Its environmental sustainability and biodegradability have made it a popular alternative to traditional petroleum-based plastics. As the demand for sustainable and environmentally friendly products continues to grow, research into the potential applications of PLA has increased, including its use as a feed ingredient for livestock.

The study “Assessment of polylactic acid as a feed ingredient for dairy cattle” was published in the journal “Animal Feed Science and Technology” and aimed to investigate the potential of using PLA as a feed ingredient for dairy cattle. The study used a controlled experiment to assess the effect of incorporating PLA into the diet of dairy cattle on their health, performance, and milk production.

The study was conducted on a group of Holstein-Friesian cows and lasted for a period of 14 weeks. The cows were randomly divided into two groups, with one group receiving a diet that included 5% PLA and the other group receiving a control diet without PLA. The health, performance, and milk production of the cows were regularly monitored throughout the experiment.

The results of the study showed that the inclusion of PLA in the diet of dairy cattle did not have a negative impact on their health or performance. There were no significant differences observed in the body weight, feed intake, or feed efficiency of the cows receiving the diet with PLA compared to the control group.

Additionally, the study found that the inclusion of PLA in the diet did not have a negative impact on the milk production of the cows. The milk yield, milk composition, and milk quality were similar for both the control group and the group receiving the diet with PLA.

The results of this study indicate that PLA can be a suitable feed ingredient for dairy cattle, with no negative impact on their health, performance, or milk production. This is an encouraging result, as it suggests that incorporating PLA into the diets of dairy cattle could help to reduce the use of traditional petroleum-based plastics in the animal feed industry and contribute to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly food production system.

It’s important to note that this study is limited in scope and more research is needed to fully understand the long-term effects of incorporating PLA into the diets of dairy cattle. Furthermore, the study was conducted on a small sample of Holstein-Friesian cows and the results may not be generalizable to other breeds of cattle or other livestock species.

In conclusion, the study “Assessment of polylactic acid as a feed ingredient for dairy cattle” provides important insights into the potential of using PLA as a feed ingredient for dairy cattle. The results of the study suggest that incorporating PLA into the diets of dairy cattle does not have a negative impact on their health, performance, or milk production. Further research is needed to fully understand the long-term effects of incorporating PLA into the diets of dairy cattle and to assess its potential as a sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional petroleum-based plastics in the animal feed industry.

Let's change the world.Use plant-based plastic

Compostability Certifications in Australia

Posted on February 6, 2023February 24, 2023 by Gerco

Compostability Certifications in Australia: An Overview

Composting is an important part of waste management and sustainability in Australia, and compostability certifications play a crucial role in ensuring that organic waste is disposed of in an environmentally friendly manner. In this article, we’ll look at the different compostability certifications in Australia.

Industrial Compostable Certifications

Industrial composting refers to the controlled process of breaking down organic waste into compost in a large-scale composting facility. Industrial compostable certifications are given to products that are suitable for this kind of composting and are biodegradable within a specified timeframe. The most widely recognized industrial compostable certifications in Australia are:

AS4736: This is an Australian standard for industrial compostability. It recognizes products that are biodegradable in an industrial composting environment within 180 days and leave no harmful residue in the compost.

AS5810: This is another Australian standard for industrial compostability. It recognizes products that are biodegradable in an industrial composting environment within a specified timeframe and leave no harmful residue in the compost.

Home Compostable Certifications

Home composting refers to the process of breaking down organic waste in a small-scale composting bin or heap. Home compostable certifications are given to products that are suitable for this kind of composting and are biodegradable within a specified timeframe. The most widely recognized home compostable certifications in Australia are:

AS5810: This is an Australian standard for home compostability. It recognizes products that are biodegradable in a home composting environment within a specified timeframe and leave no harmful residue in the compost.

Marine Compostable Certifications

Marine composting refers to the process of breaking down organic waste in a marine environment, such as the ocean or sea. Marine compostable certifications are given to products that are suitable for this kind of composting and are biodegradable within a specified timeframe. There are currently no widely recognized marine compostable certifications in Australia.

Conclusion

Compostability certifications play a crucial role in ensuring that organic waste is disposed of in a sustainable and environmentally friendly manner in Australia. The different certifications cater to the different types of composting environments, such as industrial composting, home composting, and marine composting, and recognize products that are biodegradable within a specified timeframe. By choosing products with these certifications, consumers in Australia can contribute to a more sustainable future.

Let's change the world.Use plant-based plastic

Certificates for compostability USA

Posted on February 6, 2023February 24, 2023 by Gerco

Compostability Certifications in the USA: An Overview

Composting is an important part of the circular economy and a sustainable way to manage organic waste in the United States. To ensure that products labeled as compostable are truly biodegradable and don’t harm the environment, the US has established compostability certifications. In this article, we’ll look at the different compostability certifications in the United States.

Industrial Compostable Certifications

ASTM D6400: This is a standard for industrial compostability in the US and is widely recognized. To be certified under ASTM D6400, a product must biodegrade within 180 days in an industrial composting facility and leave no harmful residue in the compost.

BPI (Biodegradable Products Institute): This is a US-based certification body that certifies products as industrially compostable according to the ASTM D6400 standard. The certification process involves laboratory testing and real-life composting tests.

Home Compostable Certifications

ASTM D6868: This is a standard for home compostability in the US and recognizes products that are biodegradable in a home composting environment. The standard requires that the product biodegrade within 180 days and leave no harmful residue in the compost.

BPI (Biodegradable Products Institute): This US-based certification body certifies products as home compostable according to the ASTM D6868 standard. The certification process involves laboratory testing and real-life composting tests.

Marine Compostable Certifications

Marine composting refers to the process of breaking down organic waste in a marine environment, such as the ocean or sea. Marine compostable certifications are given to products that are suitable for this kind of composting and are biodegradable within a specified timeframe. The most widely recognized marine compostable certifications in the United States are:

ASTM D7081: This is a standard for marine compostability in the US and recognizes products that are biodegradable in a marine environment. The standard requires that the product biodegrade within a specified timeframe and leave no harmful residue in the marine environment.

BPI (Biodegradable Products Institute): This US-based certification body certifies products as marine compostable according to the ASTM D7081 standard. The certification process involves laboratory testing and real-life marine composting tests.

Conclusion

Compostability certifications play a crucial role in ensuring that organic waste is disposed of in a sustainable and environmentally friendly manner in the United States. The different certifications cater to the different types of composting environments, such as industrial composting, home composting, and marine composting, and recognize products that are biodegradable within a specified timeframe. By choosing products with these certifications, consumers can contribute to a more sustainable future.

Let's change the world.Use plant-based plastic

Compostability certifications in Europe

Posted on February 6, 2023February 24, 2023 by Gerco

Compostability Certifications in Europe: An Overview

Composting is a crucial part of the circular economy and a sustainable way to dispose of organic waste. Europe has been at the forefront of implementing compostability certifications to ensure that the products labeled as compostable are truly biodegradable and don’t harm the environment. In this article, we’ll look at the different compostability certifications in Europe, focusing on the differences between industrial compostable, home compostable, and marine compostable certificates.

Industrial Compostable Certifications

EN 13432: This is a European standard for industrial compostability and is the most widely recognized certification for industrial compostable products. To be certified under EN 13432, a product must biodegrade within 12 weeks and leave no harmful residue in the compost.

OK Compost: This certification is given by the European certification body TÜV Austria and follows the EN 13432 standard. The certification process involves testing the biodegradability of the product in industrial composting facilities.

DIN CERTCO: This is a German certification for industrial compostable products and follows the EN 13432 standard. The certification process involves laboratory testing and real-life composting tests.

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– reduce CO2 emissions,
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– and show the world that they are reducing the impact on the environment.

Home Compostable Certifications

Home Compost: This is a certification by the European certification body TÜV Austria and recognizes products that are biodegradable in a home composting environment. The certification process involves laboratory testing and real-life composting tests.

PEFCR: This is a French certification for home compostable products and recognizes products that are biodegradable in a home composting environment. The certification process involves laboratory testing and real-life composting tests.

Marine Compostable Certifications

Marine composting refers to the process of breaking down organic waste in a marine environment, such as the ocean or sea. Marine compostable certifications are given to products that are suitable for this kind of composting and are biodegradable within a specified timeframe. The most widely recognized marine compostable certifications in Europe are:

Marine Degradable: This certification recognizes products that are biodegradable in a marine environment and follows the ASTM D7081 standard for marine biodegradability. The certification process involves laboratory testing and real-life marine composting tests.

Blue Angel: This is a German certification for environmentally friendly products and recognizes products that are biodegradable in a marine environment. The certification process involves laboratory testing and real-life marine composting tests.

Conclusion

Compostability certifications in Europe play a crucial role in ensuring that organic waste is disposed of in a sustainable and environmentally friendly manner. The different certifications cater to the different types of composting environments, such as industrial composting, home composting, and marine composting, and recognize products that are biodegradable within a specified timeframe. By choosing products with these certifications, consumers can play

Month: February 2023

Biodegradable vs. Compostable

Let's change the world.Use plant-based plastic

PLA and anaerobic digestion

Let's change the world.Use plant-based plastic

PLA as a feed ingredient for dairy cattle

Let's change the world.Use plant-based plastic

Compostability Certifications in Australia

Let's change the world.Use plant-based plastic

Certificates for compostability USA

Let's change the world.Use plant-based plastic

Compostability certifications in Europe

Let's change the world.Use plant-based plastic

Gerco Leeflang