Why compostable packaging matters

Why compostables? 

Compostables are the key to recycling everything.  Moving to  Vegware’s compostable catering disposables means that food and packaging waste can be composted together. This is a practical recycling solution for foodservice to recycle all takeaway packaging, not just coffee cups.   

Compostable packaging and leftover food can break down together naturally. When we put both in the same bin, it helps reduce general waste and keeps the recycling cleaner for other items.  

The key benefits 

The benefits of compostable food packaging are: 

• Compostable packaging reduces contamination in your recycling stream 
• You can throw food & packaging into a composting bin together 
• No need to clean and dry your packaging like you would need to with recycling 
• Reduce your general waste and avoid incineration which is the equivalent of producing energy from coal 
• Your waste is composted locally and won’t be exported to another country 

Closing the loop 

Vegware partners with commercial collectors around the UK to help clients get used Vegware to suitable composting. We have great partnerships with the best facilities to process compostable packaging and food waste. We collect and take food waste and used Vegware to a composting facility. The facility then transforms the used Vegware and food waste in under 12 weeks into high-grade compost, used for agriculture, horticulture, and landscaping.  

Commercial, also known as industrial, composting facilities are where used Vegware can go to be processed together with food waste. There are many facilities throughout the UK, and worldwide, processing used Vegware.  Within the UK, there are a number of suitable in-vessel composting facilities (IVC’s), such as our partners Envar, Biowise and BioCapital. These IVC’s are actively engaging with the waste sector to overcome any barriers.   

How we can help you to compost 

Since 2012, our Environmental team have been working with composters to set up trials to make sure it works in practice. In-vessel composting (IVC) is one of the main processes suited to composting our products.   

At Vegware we have a dedicated team of waste management consultants who can advise customers on: 

• How to compost Vegware packaging through commercial collections to on-site composting and UK-wide post back services 
• How legislation affects your business 
• On-going support throughout the transition to zero waste 
• Communication materials such as bespoke bin signs 

What if you can’t compost? 

Using Vegware means using products made from biomass rather than fossil-based resources. Our packaging is made from plants, using renewable, reclaimed or recycled materials and this still applies in general waste. Many of our fibre-based products hold recyclability certification PTS-RH 021:2012. These products may be accepted if clean and dry, depending on the process of the paper mill. Some of our products are also certified for home composting. 

Speak to our Environmental team for specific end of life information. 

+44 (0) 0330 223 0400 | environmental@vegware.com | vegware.com