Biodegradable vs Compostable: Compliance Risks for Importers
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The terms biodegradable and compostable are often used as if they mean the same thing.
For importers and distributors, this confusion creates real biodegradable vs compostable compliance risks.
In regulated markets, product acceptance is not based on sustainability claims.
It is based on certification, system compatibility, and local acceptance rules.
This page explains the key compliance risks between biodegradable and compostable bags, why biodegradable products are often rejected, and what importers should understand before sourcing or supplying bags for regulated waste systems.
Why “Biodegradable” Claims Create Compliance Risks
Biodegradable is a broad and poorly defined term in many regulations.
A biodegradable claim does not clearly define:
The disposal environment
The breakdown timeframe
Whether residues are safe for compost or soil
Because of this uncertainty, biodegradable products are difficult to verify at scale and are often treated as high-risk claims in regulated waste systems.
For importers, relying on biodegradable labeling increases the risk of product rejection, customer disputes, and compliance challenges.
How Compostable Claims Are Evaluated Differently
Compostable claims are evaluated using defined standards and testing conditions.
Certified compostable bags must:
- Break down under specific composting conditions
- Disintegrate within fixed processing timeframes
- Leave no harmful residues
- Be verified by third-party certification
This difference explains what makes a compostable bag compliant in regulated markets, while biodegradable claims often fail acceptance checks.
Why Councils and Waste Systems Reject Biodegradable Bags
From a waste system perspective, predictability matters more than intention.
Biodegradable bags are commonly rejected because they:
May fragment instead of fully composting
Cannot be verified across large volumes
Increase the risk of plastic contamination
Do not align with fixed processing cycles
This is why biodegradable bags are generally not accepted in organics bins under council-managed programs.
Compliance vs Acceptance: Where Importers Get Caught
One of the most common mistakes importers make is confusing compliance with acceptance.
Compliance refers to whether a product meets a standard or certification
Acceptance refers to whether a council or facility allows the product in its system
A product may legally carry a biodegradable claim but still be rejected by councils or composting facilities.
Local organics bin acceptance rules always override marketing language.
In Australia, councils often specify AS4736 compostable liners for council FOGO programs to reduce contamination risk.
Importers supplying compostable bags for FOGO systems must understand both certification requirements and local acceptance rules.
Common Importer Mistakes with Biodegradable Products
Importers often face compliance risks when they:
- Substitute biodegradable bags for certified compostable liners
- Assume plant-based materials are automatically accepted
- Rely on supplier claims without valid certification
- Ignore differences between markets and waste systems
These mistakes can lead to rejected shipments, contract losses, and reputational damage.
How Importers Can Reduce Compliance Risks
To reduce biodegradable vs compostable compliance risks, importers should:
- Identify the target waste system first
- Confirm which compostable standard applies
- Request valid certification documents
- Verify acceptance rules with councils or processors
- Avoid vague or unqualified biodegradable claims
Clear documentation and system matching are critical for long-term compliance.
Key Takeaways for Importers
- Biodegradable and compostable are not interchangeable
- Biodegradable claims increase uncertainty and rejection risk
- Compostable acceptance depends on certification and system fit
- Councils control acceptance, not suppliers
- Import decisions should prioritise compliance over marketing
Related Resources
Need Help Managing Compliance Risks?
Importers sourcing compostable bags should evaluate certification, disposal systems, and acceptance rules before placing orders or launching products.
Contact our technical team for market-specific compliance guidance.
Importers concerned about biodegradable vs compostable compliance risks should confirm certification and acceptance rules before sourcing or placing orders.
