Every second, humans use 160,000 bags. That’s roughly 5 trillion single-use plastic bags every year.

We rely on single-use plastic bags for our grocery shopping, food and yard waste disposal, and more. But while convenient, plastic bags have a long-lasting impact. Which is part of their point - to last a long time.

But they’re made from non-renewable fossil fuels and can take hundreds of years to break down. In fact, just about every bit of plastic we have ever used in our lifetime, still exists in one form or another. Which affects ecosystems, wildlife and even contaminates our water.

It's time to do something different. Compost bags for your food and yard waste have emerged as an sustainable alternative. One bag at a time is a small and simple way for people to reduce the use of single-use plastics.

What are compost bags made of?

Compostable bags are a sustainable alternative to plastic bags. They break down into organic waste and break down in a composting environment, just like a piece of fruit. They create nutrient-rich soil which will help plants grow.

These worm-friendly alternatives come from renewable and biodegradable materials, like corn starch, or cellulose.

MyEcoWorld® compostable bags are made from 30% corn and other certified compostable materials such as PBAT (Polybutylene Adipate Terephthalate), and PLA (Polylactic Acid). Our bags deliver the perfect combination of thickness, strength and puncture resistance.

Here's how they work:

• PBAT (Polybutylene Adipate Terephthalate) is a non-toxic compostable material type of flexible plastic that breaks down quickly in composting conditions. While it behaves like regular plastic, it breaks down much faster in the right environment.
• PLA (Polylactic Acid) is from renewable plant sources like corn. Unlike traditional plastics made from oil, PLA comes from plants and breaks down in compost.

Together, PBAT provides flexibility, while PLA adds strength. A great combination to match the performance of their plastic counterparts. But one that also breaks down much faster when composted. Check out more on our product certifications and FAQs to learn more.

Are compost bags better for the environment than plastic bags?

Compostable bags provide a more sustainable option for your food or garden waste than traditional plastic bags. They help us reduce waste, reduce our plastic reliance, and put the planet first. So we can have a world that's free from conventional single-use plastics. Read more on the impacts with plastics in our environment - Earth.

Are compost bags better for the environment than plastic bags?

Compostable bags provide a more sustainable option for your food or garden waste than traditional plastic bags. They help us reduce waste, reduce our plastic reliance, and put the planet first. So we can have a world that's free from conventional single-use plastics.

Compostable bags help reduce our fossil fuel use.

By choosing the plastic-free option, we cut our reliance on fossil fuels. We also reduce our use of single-use plastics and help lower waste overall. Remember, every choice makes a difference.

Read more on the different types of microplastics that researchers are uncovering in our soil from single-use traditional plastic bags - such like the waste bags you use to collect your Pet's poop.

Compostable bags create nutrient-rich compost

Using composting options means both the bag and the waste can turn into rich compost. This compost can improve soil health or even grow the plants from which the bag comes from. A circular economy loop that enriches gardens, farms and other green spaces is one we want more of. It's what we see as Our Eco World. Learn about how you can start to compost at home.

Compostable trash bags reduce food waste in landfills.

In landfills, organic waste decomposes anaerobically and releases methane, a potent greenhouse gas. Using this plastic alternative diverts organic waste from landfills and reduces methane emissions.

Compostable bags leave no harmful residue behind.

Unlike traditional plastic bags, these bags break down without harmful microplastics or other residues. This means they won't contaminate soil and water systems.

Making the switch to compostable bags can be a small yet impactful step towards a greener future.

Where can I buy compostable bags for food waste?

The demand for more sustainable waste streams is growing. And so is the availability of options. You can find plastic-free choices in shops, online marketplaces, sustainable stores and even from local government programs. This will make it easier for you to find and use these eco-focused alternative options in your daily efforts to reduce plastic waste. But make sure to do your research before you buy.

Look for the certifications.

Compostable bags are often certified by independent organizations. For example, MyEcoWorld® 's compostable 3 Gal, 13 Gal, and 33 Gal bags are certified by the Biodegradable Products Institute (BPI). This means they meet strict U.S. standards for composability. When you see the mark of approval, you can be confident they will break down properly when disposed of in the right composting facilities. Learn more about our product certifications - we take great pride in these.

Check your local commercial composting facilities.

It's important to check if your local municipalities accepts compostable bags, as not all do. If you end up putting your bags in the landfill, you are still making a difference by helping remove conventional single-use plastics out of the waste stream.

Some local composting programs or waste management services may offer specific bags for their waste collection services.

Do they cost more than regular plastic bags?

Yes, compostable bags are usually more expensive than regular plastic bags, because of the cost of renewable materials.

The market and demand are still growing. Because of this, we have not yet reached the same production scale and cost efficiencies as larger manufacturers. We also stand for superior quality and durability to make them just as reliable as your traditional bags.

But the benefits to the planet like single-use plastic reduction make them a worthwhile investment. To save money, consider a MyEcoWorld® subscription, which offer an affordable and convenient way to make the switch.

How to choose the best type of composting bag

Choosing the best compostable bag doesn’t need to be difficult. Here are a few FAQs to guide you:

Can I use them for yard waste?

Yes, compostable bags can be used for yard waste. However, check with your local waste management guidelines first to ensure they accept them.

Some bags require industrial composting conditions. So make sure you choose a BPI certified brand like MyEcoWorld® to meet local requirements. This means they meet the home and industrial standards, making them a reliable choice for your yard waste.

Can I use them for food waste?

Using compostable bags for your food countertop compost waste is a great way to put the organic waste from your kitchen to good use. Some local governments do not accept composting bags so make sure to check first. When picking your bags, look for ones that are certified to break down in your local composting facility.

Are there different sizes of composting bags available?

There are multiple sizes to choose from when it comes to waste reduction with compost bags, depending on your needs. MyEcoWorld® offers compostable products in different sizes. You can find 3-Gal and 13-Gal kitchen liners. We also have 33-Gal yard waste bags to fit your needs.

Choosing the right compost bin liner size for your kitchen bins or garden waste can help reduce plastic waste and make your life easier.

Are they strong enough to hold heavy items?

People often ask us if the non-conventional plastic alternatives are actually strong enough to handle what we throw at them. While we don’t typically recommend using a compostable bag for rocks (!), the strength of your bag will be down to your brand choice. Though they are gentle enough for Mother Earth, ours are tough enough to handle organic waste, all the way to the soil.

Take your time researching and choosing the best compostable bag for your needs. Do you need it for food scraps? Or do you want it for the garden waste? Check your local government’s guidelines before you purchase to ensure your efforts don’t go to waste.

Using alternatives to plastic is a step in the right direction.

Compostable bags break down completely with less harmful side effects. As well as supporting the shift to a circular economy.

They are a small step towards a sustainable future. But remember to follow local guidelines and use the products as intended to have a positive impact on the environment.

By using compostable bags, people can help create a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable future for our planet. One bag at a time.

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