Biodegradable vs. Compostable vs. Recyclable: What waste labels really mean

If you have ever held a piece of packaging and thought, “This sounds eco friendly, but what does it actually do?”, you are in good company. Waste labels are often well intentioned but not always well explained, which can leave even the most environmentally conscious among us feeling unsure.

At Cawleys, we believe clarity matters. Especially when it comes to sustainability. So let’s take a proper look at what biodegradable, compostable, and recyclable really mean, how they work in the real world, and why the differences matter.

Biodegradable

Sounds good, but read the small print.

Biodegradable means a material can be broken down by natural organisms like bacteria, fungi, or microbes. Over time, it turns into simpler substances such as water, carbon dioxide, and organic matter.

The key phrase here is over time. There is no fixed timescale attached to the word biodegradable. Something might break down in months under ideal conditions, or it could take years if it is buried in landfill with little air or moisture.

Another thing to watch out for is residue. Some biodegradable plastics break down into smaller pieces rather than fully returning to nature, which means they can still contribute to microplastic pollution.

What to look for:

If something is labelled biodegradable, check whether it also states how long it takes to break down and in what environment. Without that detail, the label does not tell you very much.

Compostable

Biodegradable with rules and structure.

Compostable materials are designed to break down fully into non toxic, natural material that can support plant growth. Unlike biodegradable, compostable usually comes with standards and timeframes.

Most compostable packaging will specify whether it is suitable for home composting or requires an industrial composting facility. Industrial composting uses higher temperatures and controlled conditions, which means some compostable items will not break down properly in a garden compost bin.

This is where people often get caught out. A compostable cup that looks eco friendly can still end up in landfill if there is no composting infrastructure available.

What to look for:

Certifications or clear wording such as “home compostable” or “industrial compostable only”. If it does not say which one, it is worth being cautious.

Recyclable

Only useful if it gets recycled.

Recyclable materials are designed to be collected, processed, and turned into new products. This includes things like paper, cardboard, glass, metals, and many types of plastic.

However, recyclable does not mean it will definitely be recycled. Local recycling rules vary, contamination is a big issue, and mixed materials can be difficult to process. A recyclable item placed in the wrong bin may still end up in landfill.

Recycling is a brilliant system when it works properly, but it relies on clear labelling, good design, and people knowing what to do with the item once they are finished with it.

What to look for:

Simple materials, clear recycling symbols, and instructions that match UK recycling systems. The easier it is to understand, the more likely it is to be recycled.

Why These Labels Are Often Confusing

Many products carry multiple claims, or use terms that sound similar but mean very different things. Biodegradable sounds positive, compostable sounds even better, and recyclable sounds responsible. Without context, they can all blur together.

For businesses, this confusion can lead to accidental greenwashing. For consumers, it can lead to good intentions ending in the wrong bin.

Clear language, honest claims, and thoughtful design make all the difference.

Why This Matters for Brands

Sustainability claims are no longer just nice to have. Customers are paying attention, asking questions, and expecting transparency. Using the right term, in the right way, helps build trust and avoids confusion.

Need Help Getting It Right?

If you are navigating sustainability messaging, packaging copy, or brand communication and want to make sure your claims are clear, accurate, and credible, we can help.

At Cawleys, we turn complex ideas into simple, honest messages that people actually understand. Get in touch to make your sustainability story work harder, without the confusion.