COMPOSTABLE
Designed to break down under specified composting conditions into components that can be processed through an appropriate composting system.
COMPOSTABLE PACKAGING, EXPLAINED
YOUR MAILER.
WHAT HAPPENS
NEXT?
If you've scanned the code on one of our compostable mailers, you're in the right place. Here's what it's made from, what compostable actually means and what to do with it next.
FIND OUT MORE →START WITH THE IMPORTANT BIT
COMPOSTABLE DOESN'T
MEAN "THROW IT ANYWHERE."
Compostable packaging is designed to break down under the right composting conditions. But how and where that happens matters.
That's why we've made this page: to explain the material clearly, cut through some of the confusing terminology and help you make the right choice when your mailer has finished doing its job.
01 — THE MATERIAL
WHAT IS YOUR
MAILER MADE FROM?
Our compostable mailers are made using a blend of cornstarch and compostable polymers, including PLA and PBAT.
The different components work together to create packaging that's flexible and strong enough to protect an order while it's travelling through the postal system.
01
CORNSTARCH
A plant-derived component used within the material blend.
02
PLA
A biopolymer made from renewable plant-based feedstocks.
03
PBAT
A compostable polymer that helps give the mailer the
flexibility and durability it needs.
02 — THE TERMINOLOGY
WHAT DOES
COMPOSTABLE MEAN?
These words are often used interchangeably. They shouldn't be.
BIODEGRADABLE
A broad term meaning a material can be broken down by microorganisms. On its own, it doesn't tell you how quickly, where or under what conditions that happens.
RECYCLABLE
A different end-of-life route altogether. Compostable flexible packaging should not be assumed to belong in conventional plastic recycling collections.
CHECK BEFORE
YOU CHUCK.
Compostable packaging isn't accepted by every local collection service, so disposal isn't quite as simple as putting it into any food-waste or recycling bin.
REUSE IT FIRST
If the mailer is still clean and usable, getting another use from it before disposal is a simple way to extend its useful life.
CHECK LOCALLY
Check whether your local authority or waste provider accepts compostable packaging. Collection rules and facilities vary between areas.
KEEP IT OUT OF PLASTIC RECYCLING
Unless your local waste provider specifically tells you otherwise, don't put compostable mailers into conventional plastic recycling.
IF YOU'RE UNSURE
Follow the guidance provided by your local waste authority. Correct disposal is better than putting compostable packaging into a waste stream that doesn't accept it.
!
ONE THING WORTH REMEMBERING
COMPOSTABLE PACKAGING
NEEDS THE RIGHT CONDITIONS.
The word compostable doesn't mean a product should be littered, buried in the garden or expected to disappear quickly in the natural environment.
Composting depends on the correct combination of conditions and an appropriate waste route. Always follow the disposal guidance available where you live.
04 — WHY THIS MATERIAL?
PACKAGING STILL
HAS A JOB TO DO.
Before we think about what happens to packaging at the end of its life, it has to do its first job properly: protect what's inside.
Our compostable mailers are designed to provide the flexibility and durability needed for ecommerce shipping while offering a compostable end-of-life route where suitable facilities exist.
For us, better packaging isn't about pretending any material is perfect. It's about understanding the options, choosing thoughtfully and giving customers clear information about what happens next.
OUR APPROACH
NO GREENWASH.
NO MAGIC MATERIALS.
JUST BETTER INFORMATION.
Sustainability is complicated. We'd rather explain the trade-offs honestly than make packaging sound like something it isn't.
EXPLORE POSITIVE CHANGE →THE DETAILS
GOOD QUESTIONS.
Here are the things we're asked most often.
CAN I PUT THE MAILER IN MY FOOD-WASTE BIN? +
Not automatically. Food-waste and composting services vary between local authorities and waste providers. Check the guidance for your area before adding compostable packaging to a food-waste collection.
CAN I PUT IT IN PLASTIC RECYCLING? +
Compostable flexible packaging is a different material from conventional recyclable plastic. Unless your local waste provider specifically accepts it, don't place it in your standard plastic recycling collection.
IS COMPOSTABLE THE SAME AS BIODEGRADABLE? +
No. Biodegradable is a broad description of a material's ability to break down through biological activity. Compostable materials are designed for breakdown under particular composting conditions.
WHY DOES THE MATERIAL CONTAIN PBAT? +
PBAT is used within the material blend to help provide the flexibility and strength needed for a mailing bag to perform during packing and delivery.
CAN I JUST LEAVE IT TO BREAK DOWN OUTSIDE? +
No. Compostable does not mean litterable. The mailer should still be disposed of responsibly using an appropriate waste route.
WHAT IF I'M STILL NOT SURE? +
Local disposal systems vary, so your local authority or waste provider is the best source for collection-specific guidance. For questions about the product itself, contact Simplelifeco Customer Care at support@simplelifeco.uk.
NEED MORE?
PACKAGING FOR
WHAT HAPPENS NEXT.
Explore our range of packaging designed for ecommerce businesses, independent brands and everyday shipping.
SHOP ECOMMERCE PACKAGING →