In recent years, India has introduced some of the strongest and most comprehensive bans on plastic waste. As awareness of the dangers of plastic waste continues to grow, there has also been awareness on alternatives to plastic waste. Compostable bags are becoming the leading alternative, specifically for businesses, mom and pop stores and conscientious consumers concerned about their environmental footprint. 

However, all compostable bags are not created equal. What’s available, certifications, materials, and even the store where you purchase the bags matters a lot when it comes to eco-friendliness. 

If you have searched “best compostable bags in India” you have come to the right place. This blog is going to cover everything from certifications, to raw materials and suppliers that you can trust. 

Why Compostable Bags Are the Future of Packaging in India

Plastic pollution is a major issue, India creates almost 3.5 million tonnes of plastic waste each year; most of which ends up in landfills, rivers and in the oceans. Compostable bags create an eco-friendly alternative that are made from renewable resources that won’t harm the environment, such as cornstarch and vegetable oils, and ultimately decompose to water, carbon dioxide, and biomass.

For businesses, compostable bags are environmentally friendly, but also: 

• Government-friendly (bans on plastics are getting more stringent)
• Customer-friendly (sustainability options are welcome among customers)
• Fiscally efficient over time (will save fines and create goodwill)

Understanding Certifications: How to Identify Genuine Compostable Bags

In India, one of the most important issues at hand is the fact that most of the so-called eco-friendly bags are false compostable and in most of the cases just oxo-biodegradable (which is prohibited). The following certifications should help you avoid:

1. CPCB Certification (Central Pollution Control Board, India)

• Mandatory in selling compostable bags in India.
• Ensures that the Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016 are followed.
• Bags should be tested in approved labs and labeled by CPCB approved labels.
  
  

2. ISO 17088 Certification

• International testing method of compostability.
• Ensures that the bag is fully biodegradable in an industrial composting environment.
  
  

3. EN 13432 (European Standard)

• Recognized worldwide.
• Makes sure that the bags will degrade within 12 weeks in industrial composting facilities.
  
  

4. ASTM D6400 (US Standard)

• Establishes the standards of labeling plastics as being compostable in the U.S.
• Ensures safe breakdown without a toxic residue

Tips to Buyers: Also the buyers must ask the supplier to show you CPCB certification in India. In its absence, the bags cannot legally be sold.

Materials Used in Compostable Bags

Compostable bags are not mere look alike plastics. In fact. They are derived of renewable plant material that is biodegradable. The commonest materials are the following:

1. Cornstarch

• The most common raw material used is
• Solid, pliable and degrades within a short duration of time.
• Safe in food packaging
  
  

2. PLA (Polylactic Acid)

• Produced using starch of fermented plants like, sugarcane or corn.
• Suitable in clear wrapping.
  
  

3. PBAT (Polybutylene Adipate Terephthalate)

• A biodegradable polymer which is commonly considered to blend with PLA.
• Brings versatility and toughness.

4. Vegetable Oils & Cellulose

• Additives that increase strength.
• 100% biodegradable and natural.
  
  

Top Compostable Bags Available in India

Here’s a breakdown of popular categories of compostable bags available for businesses and individuals:

1. Compostable Garbage Bags

• Bests in home refuse and hotels and offices.
• Example: Dr. Earth Garbage Bags – CPCB certified and can be found in variety of sizes.

2. Compostable Grocery Bags

• Applied in supermarkets and kirana stores.
• Build up strength to carry heavy grocery.

3. Compostable Carry Bags

• A substitute to conventional polythene bags.
• In various thicknesses according to the state regulations.

4. Compostable Food Packaging Bags

• Ideal for restaurants, cafes and cloud kitchen.
• Able to be used in direct contact with food.

5. Compostable E-commerce Packaging

• An increasing trend of eco friendly online shops.
• Strong to prevent damage during the shipping of clothing, accessories, and other light products.
• Compostable bag in India

Where to Buy Compostable Bags in India

The quality of the supplier matters the most These are some credible sources:

1. Dr. Earth

• One of India based manufacturer of CPCB approved compostable bags.
• It sells garbage bags, grocery bags and carry bags.
• Reputed to use quality mats derived of cornstarch products.
• Website: drearth.co.in
  
  

2. Local Eco-Friendly Suppliers (CPCB-Approved)

• Vendors approved list is provided by CPCB in every state
• To view an up to date list go to the web site of the CPCB.
  
  

How to Verify Authentic Compostable Bags Before Buying

There are fake biodegradable bags on the market so you can do the following:

1. Find CPCB mark on Packages.
2. Request Certification Copy be made by the manufacturer.
3. Expiration date (the shelf life of compostable bags is 6 months -12 months).
4. Try a Water Test- water tests will bite through compostable bags more quickly than plastics.

Final Thoughts

India is close to reaching sustainable packaging as new regulations require a tighter ban on using single-use plastics. Compostable bags are no longer simply a trend since they are becoming one of the necessities of households, businesses, and retailers.

As an owner of a cafe, the manager of a supermarket, or an environmentally-friendly individual, making the switch to compostable bags will ensure that you are in compliance with the current regulations, have a more brand-enhancing product, and above all have a clean environment.

When seeking reputable suppliers, Dr. Earth will be an excellent choice with CPCB-certified products that ensure safety, sustainability and quality.

The next time you go out to shop or pack products remember a compostable bag is an option that helps you to have a greener future in India

FAQs on Compostable Bags in India

1. Are compostable bags really better than biodegradable bags?

Ans- Yes. The compostable bags are completely degradable as it returns to nature, however, the biodegradable bags can leave microplastic behind.

2. Are compostable bags legal in India?

Ans- This is true, but only the CPCB-approved compostable bags can pass as lawful according to the Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016.

3. Can compostable bags hold heavy items?

Ans- Yes. The capacity of the high-quality carrying bags and grocery bags is 8 -10 kg, depending on the thickness

4. How long do compostable bags take to degrade?

Ans- Normally 90 desiccated days to 180 days in industrial composting proportions.

5. Do compostable bags expire?

Ans- The majority have a shelf life of 612 months based on how they are stored.