A compostable product is something that is made from natural materials which breaks down into soil easily and safely when it is disposed.

Compostable plastics include items made from Polylactic Acid (PLA), Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA), and cellulose. These materials come from renewable sources such as corn, potatoes, and sugarcane. Some everyday products made from these materials are compostable food packaging, takeout containers, bags, and single-use utensils.

Compostable plastic is a type of plastic that breaks down in a special composting setting, like an industrial plant, to become soil-enriching material called compost. To be considered certified, it needs to break down within a specific time period, such as 180 days, into things like water, carbon dioxide, and organic matter, and should not leave behind harmful chemicals. Different from standard plastic, it is usually made from natural, plant-based materials like corn or sugarcane, though it can also be made from traditional fossil fuels.

Compostable bags are made from plant-based materials such as cornstarch, sugarcane fibers, or potato starch, and are often mixed with biopolymers like PLA (polylactic acid) and PBAT (polybutylene adipate terephthalate). These materials are renewable and are intended to break down into carbon dioxide, water, and biomass in a composting setting, which helps reduce waste and supports the environment.

Compostable garbage bags are made from plant-based materials like cornstarch, potato starch, or other starches, as well as polylactic acid (PLA) and cellulose. These bags are designed to decompose into natural components like water, carbon dioxide, and biomass under specific composting conditions.