Sofia Martinez
Plastic pollution is a pressing environmental issue, and it is essential to understand how to properly dispose of plastic waste. Composting is an effective way to recycle organic waste, but it is crucial to know which plastics can be safely included in compost bins. While some plastics are labelled as compostable, not all plastics are suitable for composting, and incorrect disposal can lead to contamination and environmental harm. Understanding the types of plastic that can be composted and following proper disposal guidelines are essential steps in reducing plastic pollution.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Composting plastic | Should be avoided as it contaminates the compost |
| Plastic compost bins | Are commercially available and convenient for backyard composting |
| Plastic compost bins | Should be placed on level ground in a well-drained area |
| Plastic compost bins | Need to be turned and aerated once a month |
| Plastic compost bins | Typically have a small door at the bottom to remove compost |
| Food-grade plastic bins | Can be used for worm composting |
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What You'll Learn
Plastic bags, food packaging, and stickers should be avoided
Plastic is a major contaminant in compost and should be avoided. Plastic packaging, such as bags, food wrappers, and stickers, should not be placed in compost bins. These items can cause significant issues for composting facilities, as they are difficult to break down and remove.
Plastic bags, in particular, can clog equipment and slow down the composting process. Even when compost is sieved at 10mm, visible plastic can still be present, and removing microplastics is a slow and expensive process. While some compost companies do remove plastics, this often comes at a higher price for the consumer.
The presence of plastics in compost has been a topic of debate, with some arguing that small bits of plastic in the soil are not harmful. However, there is growing evidence that microplastics are being consumed throughout the ecosystem, and the potential health impacts are not yet fully understood.
It is important to note that not all plastics are equal when it comes to composting. Some plastics, such as food-grade polypropylene (PP #5) bins, are considered safe for worm composting and edible plant use. These plastics are relatively inert and do not leach chemicals to the same extent as other plastics.
To avoid contaminating your compost, it is best to recycle plastics or dispose of them in a garbage container. Check with your local hauler or recycling company to understand their specific policies and guidelines for plastic waste disposal.
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Plastic compost bins are ideal for small spaces
The plastic sides and lid of a plastic compost bin retain moisture and heat, encouraging rapid decomposition. They also block out light, preventing weeds from growing. This type of bin should be placed on grass or earth. They are also easy to set up, as they can simply be stood on the soil.
One example of a plastic compost bin is the Blackwall Compost Converter, which is made of recycled plastic and consists of a one-piece cone-shaped body with a snug-fitting removable lid and single hatch. It is very quick to set up and is a great option for those who want a simple and affordable compost bin. However, due to its thin sides, it is one of the slower composters.
Another option is to make your own compost bin using plastic storage containers. This is an easy project that will give you finished compost in about three months. The bins should be at least 18 gallons in size, and one of them must have a lid. The second bin is used to catch the liquid that leaches out of the first bin, which can be used as a fertilizer called "compost tea". To provide air circulation, drill holes throughout the containers, spacing them 1 to 2 inches apart on all sides. You can also drill holes in the bottom of the top bin, which will nest inside the bottom bin.
Overall, plastic compost bins are a great option for those with small spaces who want to compost their food waste. They are inexpensive, convenient, and encourage rapid decomposition.
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Plastic bins are widely available and can be repurposed
There are several types of plastic bins available for composting. The Blackwall Compost Converter is a good option for those who want a simple and affordable compost bin. It is made of recycled plastic and consists of a one-piece cone-shaped body with a snug-fitting removable lid and a single hatch. It is quick to set up and can be placed almost anywhere. However, due to its thin sides, it is one of the slower composters. Another option is the Green Johanna 330-litre Hot Composter, which is made from 100% recycled plastic and works effectively for all types of food and garden waste. It is compact and easy to site, with a large hatch for adding and emptying waste.
When using a plastic compost bin, it is important to turn the compost mixture to aerate it. This can be done with a pitchfork, shovel, or a "winged compost aerator." The lasagna" method of layering brown and green materials can also help provide aeration and speed up the composting process. It is also important to keep the compost "clean" by not including contaminants like plastic packaging and wrappers. Plastic contamination in compost is a major issue, as it can clog machinery, make it difficult to sell the finished compost, and potentially impact soil health.
Some people also use food-grade plastic bins for worm composting, which can then be used for edible plants. PP #5/polypropylene plastic is considered safe for this purpose, as it is extremely inert and does not leach chemicals.
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Drill holes in plastic bins to help with aeration
Plastic compost bins are a convenient and inexpensive system for composting food and yard waste. They are widely available, and you might even have a couple in your home that you can repurpose. The bins should be at least 18 gallons in size and have a lid.
To successfully make compost, the amount of various organic materials, air, and water must be managed for optimum microbial activity. Therefore, it is important to turn the compost mixture to aerate it. This can be done by using a ""winged compost aerator" or by shaking the bin. Drilling holes in the compost bin is another way to provide aeration and help the compost decompose faster.
When drilling holes in plastic compost bins, it is important to use the right tools to avoid cracking the plastic. Some sources recommend using a regular hand drill with a sharp metal drill bit. It is important to ensure that the drill is not wobbly, as this can ruin the bin even with the best bit. Using a slow speed and varying the speed when drilling through hard plastic can help to prevent cracking. Others suggest using a soldering iron or a hot wire, but this can create an unpleasant odor. Acrylic drill bits are another option that can create professional-looking results without cracking the plastic. These bits are carbide or diamond-tipped and can be purchased for around $15.
When drilling the holes, it is important to space them 1 to 2 inches apart, drilling on all sides of the containers, including the bottom. If using a large drill bit, consider lining the interior of the bin with wire mesh or hardware cloth to keep out rodents. Drawing the hole pattern on paper and taping it to the container can help ensure even spacing. It is also important to wash the container with soap and water after drilling to remove any toxins from heating the plastic.
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Compostable plastics are not intended for recycling
Compostable plastic is not always the environmentally friendly solution it is often assumed to be. While it is true that a dump truck's worth of plastic waste enters our oceans every minute, compostable plastic is not intended for recycling and can contaminate and disrupt the recycling stream if intermixed with petroleum-based plastics that are non-compostable.
Some forms of biobased plastic cannot be recycled together with petroleum-based plastics due to chemical structure incompatibility. However, other biobased plastics may have compatible chemical structures that allow for recycling together with petroleum-based plastics. To determine what waste disposal options are available for a biobased plastic item, it is necessary to read the product's label regarding its compostability and recyclability.
In general, plastic that is labelled as compostable is intended to be sent to an industrial or commercial composting facility, which has higher temperatures and different breakdown conditions than those found in a typical homeowner's compost bin. Compostable plastic must be recovered in either home or commercial compost, depending on what that specific item is designed for.
If your community has a residential compost collection program, check with your local government or recycling company to find out if they will accept compostable plastic under this program. If your community does not have a composting recycling pick-up program that accepts compostable plastic, contact your garbage/recycling company or local government to find out if there are any drop-off locations for your compostable plastic items.
It is important to note that biodegradable plastic does not have defined conditions for breaking down in the same way that compostable plastic does, and this creates a problem. Compostable and biodegradable plastics can contaminate the recycling stream, so it is important to check your local recycling guidelines and only recycle items that your program accepts.
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Frequently asked questions
No plastic should be put in the compost bin unless the label indicates that the product is suitable for home composting. Plastic that is labelled as compostable is generally intended to be sent to an industrial or commercial composting facility.
Plastic is a contaminant and can render valuable organic waste useless. Plastic packaging and wrappers can clog and break composting facility machinery.
Elastic bands, bags, films, wraps, and other kinds of packaging are common contaminants. Fruit and veggie stickers are also a culprit as they easily slip through screeners.
Plastic compost bins are ideal for small spaces as they retain moisture and heat to encourage rapid decomposition. They also block out light to stop weeds from growing.
Wooden compost bins are an alternative to plastic bins. The Suttons Modular Wooden Compost Bin is made from sustainably sourced Scandinavian softwood and has been awarded a Best Buy award by BBC Gardeners' World Magazine.
