When it comes to compostable paper cups, there are many questions that may arise. The first is whether they are biodegradable or disposable, and then there are some other questions about the plastics they are made of.
Plastic linings
In an effort to make paper cups greener, companies have been experimenting with reusable packaging. However, plastic linings on the inside of these biodegradable disposable paper cup present a barrier to recycling. This makes the process difficult.
Fortunately, there is a solution to the issue. A linerless cup, made from latex, is now available, allowing consumers to recycle their own paper cups with their cardboard.
The problem with using plastic linings on the inside of paper cups is that they can clog up recycling equipment. They also pose a barrier to liquids. It is therefore difficult to separate them from the rest of the paper in the recycling process.
There are other options that may solve the problem. These include polymer coatings. These can be formulated into a water-based or block-resistant coating. Polymers can be applied using existing rod or gravure equipment.
Some of these polymers are approved for food contact. The aqueous lining on Verive paper cups, for example, is made from a blend of corn starch and Poly Lactic Acid (PLA).
Plastic linings on the inside of paper cups are not biodegradable. While they can be composted, they are not suitable for home composting.
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Polylactic acid (PLA) plastics
Polylactic acid (PLA) is a biopolymer derived from fermented plant starches. It is used in the production of plastic film, bottles, nonwoven fabric, and medical implants.
PLA is a biodegradable material. In addition, it is a more environmentally friendly alternative to fossil fuel-based plastics. However, its ability to break down in compost piles or landfills is not necessarily greater than that of standard plastic.
PLA is produced from renewable resources, including renewable carbohydrate sources such as sugarcane. The process begins by collecting and processing bio-based feedstocks.
A common fermentation method involves adding Lactobacillus bacteria to dextrose. These bacteria then convert the sugar in the feedstock to lactic acid. This lactic acid is then converted to lactide. Once this conversion is complete, the lactide molecules bond together to form polymers.
The conversion process is energy-intensive, however. As a result, it is not economically viable to sort and recycle PLA from other waste streams.
For PLA to break down, it needs to be in aerobic conditions for six to 12 weeks. Some industrial composters operate on faster cycles than this.
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Biodegradable vs compostable
If you've been thinking about a greener alternative to plastic cups, you might wonder if biodegradable Eco-friendly paper cups are actually better for the environment. Although the term 'biodegradable' has been used loosely by some manufacturers, it's not always accurate.
In the case of paper and plastic cups, the term 'biodegradable' might mean that the material is broken down by natural processes. It can take several weeks for paper to break down. And while some plastics break down into microplastics, it's important to understand that biodegradable doesn't necessarily mean non-toxic.
Unlike traditional plastics, some bioplastics can biodegrade much faster than others. This can be a good thing if you are trying to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. However, bioplastics also produce methane, a potent greenhouse gas.
Compostable products can break down in a matter of months or years, depending on the product and the conditions at a commercial composting facility. They can help reduce large plastic pieces from ending up in the ocean.
Disposable vs reusable
The environmental impact of disposable vs reusable 100% compostable cup paper depends on a number of factors. The amount of energy that it takes to produce the cup and the distance it travels are two factors that can affect the environmental impact.
Reusable alternatives have lower carbon footprints than disposable cups. However, it can take several hundred uses for a reusable alternative to offset the higher greenhouse gas emissions from disposables. It is difficult to recycle reusables since they are usually ceramic.
Disposables are easier to make. They are also lighter and less expensive. They are made from plastic, paper or styrofoam. These options require a lot of energy in their production.
Recycling these items saves money and conserves materials. Some companies are beginning to ban single-use cups. As a result, people are starting to pay attention to the environmental impact of disposables.
Paper cups, for example, take a lot of energy to produce. In some cases, it can take six months for the polylactic acid that is used to line the cup to break down completely in a composting facility.
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