In the past few years, the amount of plastic pollution around the world has generated growing demand for more sustainable alternatives. Compostable bags have emerged as one of the more exciting options. But one of the questions we still need to ask and answer is, how long does it take these bags to decompose? In this article, we will take a closer look into compostable bags—the context of compostable bags, how long they take to break down, the science behind compostable bags, factors affecting breakdown, and why these bags are a better choice compared to traditional plastic bags. 

Understanding Compostable Bags

Compostable bags are made from plant-based materials like cornstarch, PLA (polylactic acid), and other renewable resources. These materials are designed to break down into non-toxic materials like water, carbon dioxide, and biomass when placed in a favorable composting space. Compostable bags are made to decompose entirely when placed in a healthy composting environment, which is typically an industrial composting facility, or a well-managed home compost. Unlike biodegradable bags, which can sometimes leave out minuscule plastic pieces, compostable bags will break down fully in the proper circumstances.

What Does Science Say About Composting Times?

The rate of decomposition of compostable bags relies on a number of variables:

1. Composting Environment

• Industrial Composting Facility: Industrial composting facilities will maintain high temperature (greater than 55°C), moisture and control over microbial activity.  Typically, compostable bags can breakdown completely within 90 to 180 days.
• Home Composting System: Home composting systems will have reduced temperature with less control over microbial activity.  Typically, bags in a home composting system will breakdown completely in the range of 180 – 360 days.

2. Material Composition

• Bags made from cornstarch or PLA will breakdown more quickly than bags with a more complex polymer structure.
• Sure bags have other added compostable plasticizers or fibers but they will change the breakdown process slightly too.

3. Thickness and Size

• Any thicker bags or bags intended for heavy duty use will obviously take longer to breakdown than thinner, smaller bags.

4. Composting Conditions

• The rate at which breakdown will also depend on the microbial activity, oxygen level, moisture level, and other factors.
• If the bag is in a dry, an aerobic, or cold environment, then the bag will take more time to break down.

What Happens During the Breakdown Process?

To break it down scientifically, here’s what happens to a compostable bag:

1. Hydrolysis: Water seeps into the bag and breaks down the polymer chains.
2. Microbial Attack: Microorganisms begin to consume the organic materials converting it to carbon dioxide, water, and biomass.
3. Fragmentation: The bag breaks down into smaller and smaller fragments.
4. Mineralization: The organic material is fully converted into minerals that adds to the soil.

Compostable vs. Plastic Bags: A Timely Comparison

Real-Life Examples

• In Commercial Use: Companies like Dr Earth sell certified compostable garbage and shopping bags that only take less than 180 days to decompose in an industrial composter.
• In Home Composting: Several customers reported they saw significant degradation in 3-6 months time depending on the home composting practices.

Misconceptions About Compostable Bags

Myth 1: Compostable means biodegradable
Fact: All compostable items are biodegradable, but not all biodegradable items are compostable. Compostable bags will decompose at all times in a composted environment, while biodegradable bags will take years and leave behind microplastics.

Myth 2: Compostable bags break down anywhere
Fact: These bags require a composting environment, you are not doing it any good by throwing them in the trash.

Myth 3: Home composting is enough for all bags
Fact: Only some compostable bags will be ok for home composting. Some are specifically made for industrial composting.

Certifications That Matter

Look at these certifications, when purchasing a compostable bag:

• CPCB Approved: In India, the Central Pollution Control Board certifies truly compostable products.
• EN 13432: A European standard for compostability.
• ASTM D6400: U.S. standard for industrial composting.
• IS 17088: Indian standard for compostable plastics.

Dr. Earth compostable bags are all compounded from GMO free cornstarch, they have been certified internationally, and finally they are not toxic.

Environmental Benefits

• Reduces landfill burden
• Prevents plastic pollution
• Supports soil regeneration
• Promotes circular economy

Any compostable bag you use means less demand for petroleum-based plastics and less greenhouse gas emissions. 

How You Can Help Compostable Bags Decompose Faster

1. Select certified products. Such as Dr. Earth compostable garbage and grocery bags. 
2. Utilize the right disposal method. Ideally, industrial composting. If you cannot do that, then you can begin a home compost if you have the correct elements. 
3. Don’t mix your compostable bags with regular garbage. When exposed to landfill conditions, compostable bags will take much longer to break down and may not even break down at all! 

Final Thoughts

Using compostable bags is not just a ‘flavor of the month’ eco-choice; it’s an informed science back eco-eCS choice. Regular plastic bags take hundreds of years to degrade, so any compostable bags can genuinely process in months and in turn feed the earth! 

By understanding factors that influence the breakdown of compostable bags and supporting certified products like Dr. Earth bags, their use from individual to business can improve! 

FAQs

Q1. How long do compostable bags take to decompose in a home compost?
A: Depending on conditions, they typically break down within 180 to 360 days.

Q2. Are compostable bags better than biodegradable ones?
A: Yes. Compostable bags leave no toxic residue and break down faster under the right conditions.

Q3. Can I throw compostable bags in the regular trash?
A: It’s not recommended. Compostable bags should be disposed of in compost bins or industrial composting facilities.

Q4. Are Dr Earth compostable bags CPCB approved?
A: Yes, all Dr Earth compostable bags are CPCB certified and meet Indian and international standards.

Q5. Can compostable bags be used for storing food?
A: Yes, but check for food-grade certification on the packaging before use.