CCD-087: Compostable Paper Bags

Compostable paper bags are used to contain yard wastes, transport groceries and as packaging material, amongst other uses. The production of compostable paper bags may result in the discharge of carcinogens and toxic substances in aquatic media, and the generation of waste. These, in turn, may lead to human health impacts, resource depletion, and increased mortality in fish and other aquatic organisms.

The EcoLogo^M Program addresses these challenges by establishing strict requirements for biodegradability chemical oxygen demand (COD), aquatic toxicity and generation of solid waste. The net benefit will be reduced human health impacts, improved use of resources, diminished aquatic toxicity and reduced generation of wastes.

To be authorized to carry the EcoLogo^M, compostable paper bags must:

• Comply with all industry performance standards;
• Be biodegradable;
• Release no measurable levels of dioxins or furans;
• If manufactured using virgin fiber, use only fiber harvested under sustainable forest practices; and
• Comply with the total load point requisites for this product category. Under this system, points are assigned for three different parameters on a linear scale, starting at 0 for best manufacturing practices to a threshold value for minimum acceptable performance. A product with one parameter that exceeds the threshold must perform well in all other parameters to qualify for certification. These three parameters are:
• COD discharge,
• Sub-lethal toxicity (TEF_sub), and
• Solid waste generation.