Compostable materials are organic materials that can be broken down into fertilizer or mulch.
Eggshells, fruits and vegetables, tea bags, cardboard, shredded newspaper, and nutshells are examples of materials that can be composted.
This means that not all waste products should be composted.
While some non-compostable items are toxic to both plants and humans, others may simply be inappropriate for composting without harming anyone.
But, what about greenware, is it compostable? Let’s find out!
Is Greenware Compostable?
Yes, greenware is compostable meaning that it can be broken down into organic matter and used as fertilizer for plants.
However, they can only be used in industrial composts. This is because industrial compost at a specific temperature and moisture point.
Greenware products are typically certified to ASTM D6400 standards.
They will decompose in about 50 days if used in industrial compost. However, if used in other compost asides from industrial compost, it won’t break down in the compost.
In other words, Greenware cannot be used as regular backyard compost.
This article explains in detail all you need to know about greenware. If this is your interest, then keep reading.
What Is Greenware?
Greenware basically refers to any pottery that hasn’t been fired, they are usually made from biodegradable materials.
Greenware is naturally fragile and will be damaged by any force, fracturing or deforming it. As a result, care should be taken when handling it.
While greenwares are excellent for composting, it should not be used before being fired in the oven.
Greenware is very beneficial, here are some benefits of Greenware;
- Greenware is generally environment friendly: The materials used to make it are biodegradable, so they will not contribute to landfill waste. Greenware is also compostable, meaning that it can be broken down into organic matter and used as fertilizer for plants. This helps to reduce the amount of waste that is produced, which is good for the environment.
- Greenware durable: The materials used to make it are strong and sturdy, so it can withstand a lot of wear and tear. This makes it a good choice for people who are looking for tableware that will last for a long time.
- Greenware is cost-friendly: Greenware is made with relatively inexpensive materials, so it is a good option for people who are on a budget. This makes it a good choice for people who want to save money while still getting a high-quality product.
- Greenware is leak-resistant: This helps to improve the efficiency and output of your compost. This is also important since compost should neither be too wet nor dry. This plays a big role in ensuring the balance of your compost.
- Requires less energy: Depending on the ingredients used, composting can take weeks, months, or even years. In addition, the process of caring for such compost can be stressful and time-consuming. Greenware, on the other hand, is biodegradable and has a natural composition, needing less time and energy.
- They enhance food quality: When composting for plant usage, it’s important to think about the crop being cultivated, as using improper compost components can harm the crop. A bad crop will also be dangerous to humans if eaten. As a result, good compost materials like greenware are required for the production of nutritious and high-quality food.
- They are non-toxic: Greenware is non-toxic, unlike other compost materials that may include harmful elements. They pose no harm to humans, making them completely safe while being used.
Is Greenware Plastic Biodegradable?
Greenware plastic is biodegradable, meaning it can be broken down by bacteria and other organisms.
Greenware plastic is a great alternative to traditional plastic, which is made from fossil fuels that are not biodegradable.
This plastic is also recyclable, which means that it can be melted down and made into new products.
They are made from renewable resources, as a result, they do not contribute to climate change.
Greenware plastic is also non-toxic, it does not release harmful chemicals into the environment.
Its durability also makes it stand out, typically, this plastic can be used for a long time without breaking.
Greenware plastic is also lightweight, making it easy to move.
Is Greenware Compostable In Seattle?
Greenware is Compostable in Seattle. Seattle is in the United States of America and Greenware Plant Fiber Blend products meet international standard ASTM D6868 for compost ability.
ASTM is a standard method that incorporates plastics and polymers as coatings or additives with paper and other substrates designed to be aerobically composted in industrial facilities.
Greenware products are compostable in actively managed municipal or industrial facilities, which may not be available in your area.
Is BPI Greenware Compostable?
BPI greenware is a type of compostable product made from cornstarch. It is a more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional plastic greenware.
BPI greenware is a better choice for the environment compared to traditional plastics. This is because it is compostable.
The BPI greenware can be easily broken down into organic matter, which can then be used as fertilizer for plants.
Traditional plastic, on the other hand, is not compostable and will end up in landfill sites where it will take hundreds of years to decompose.
BPI is made from renewable resources, The cornstarch that is made from is a renewable resource, which means that it can be replenished.
Traditional plastic tableware on the other hand is made from fossil fuels, which are non-renewable resources.
BPI also has a lower carbon footprint than traditional plastics.
This is because the manufacturing process of BPI greenware emits less carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.
Traditional plastic greenware, however, emits more carbon dioxide because it is made from fossil fuels.
Can You Microwave Greenware?
Greenware is made from clay that has been dried and is ready to be worked with. Greenware has been made to withstand very hot temperatures and microwaving them is not a problem.
Regular plastics aren’t advisable to be microwaved, however, greenware plastics can be microwaved. Microwaving regular plastic can also release harmful toxic chemicals into your food.
Greenware has three stages which are;
- Clay stage: This is its original stage which is malleable and moist. This is the stage where the basic form of greenware is formed.
- The leather hard stage: This is the stage where the joining of additional clay occurs. Leather-hard is a useful clay state because the clay is strong but still wet enough to be shaped.
- The bone dry stage: This is a completely hardened clay, ready to be fired. The first firing of the form is called the bisque firing. This is the stage at which glaze is applied ready for the final firing.
Conclusion
Greenware is a good choice for people who are looking for pottery that is environmentally friendly, durable, and affordable.
It is made from biodegradable materials, so it will not contribute to landfill waste.
It is also compostable, meaning that it can be broken down into organic matter and used as fertilizer for plants.
This makes it a good choice for people who want to save money while still getting a high-quality product.
Greenware is not just compostable, they are microwaveable and its plastic is biodegradable.
In addition, greenware plastic is a great alternative to traditional plastic. It is biodegradable, recyclable, and made from renewable resources. It is also non-toxic and durable.
