Compostable Materials & Degradation

A quick reference for common compostable packaging materials: how long they take to degrade and their key benefits.

Material Time for Degradation Key Benefits
PLA (Polylactic Acid) 4 – 6 weeks in compost Strong, clear and fully compostable
PBAT (Polybutylene Adipate – Terephthalate) 3 – 5 months in compost Flexible, tear resistant, biodegradable
Paper – Based 1 – 3 months in compost Eco-friendly, recyclable, often fully biodegradable