In 2025, businesses are increasingly prioritizing sustainability, and compostable bags are a key part of this shift. If you’re looking to source compostable bags for your business, it’s crucial to understand what factors to consider when choosing the right supplier. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you select the best compostable bags for your needs.
1. Certifications Matter: Ensure Compliance with Standards
One of the most important aspects when choosing compostable bags is ensuring that they meet international compostability standards. Look for certifications like EN 13432 and ASTM D6400, which verify that the bags will break down in industrial and home composting systems.
- EN 13432: The European standard for compostability.
- ASTM D6400: The U.S. standard for biodegradability and compostability.
These certifications are crucial not only for meeting environmental standards but also for assuring your customers that your packaging is truly sustainable.
2. Material Quality: Choose Plant-Based or Biodegradable Plastics
Compostable bags should be made from plant-based materials or biodegradable plastics, which break down naturally without leaving harmful residues. Popular materials include:
- PLA (Polylactic Acid): Derived from corn or sugarcane, widely used in compostable packaging.
- PHA (Polyhydroxyalkanoates): A more advanced biodegradable plastic derived from microbial fermentation.
Make sure to check the material’s certification to confirm that it will break down effectively in both industrial and home compost environments.
3. Customization Options: Get the Right Fit for Your Brand
Customization is often a deciding factor when choosing a compostable bag supplier. Whether you need custom sizes, colors, or printed logos, a good supplier will be able to meet your branding and functional requirements.
For example, consider whether your bags need to:
- Stand up or be flat (for retail products).
- Have features like zippers or tear notches (for added convenience).
Ensure the supplier offers the flexibility to meet your unique needs.
4. Price and Volume Flexibility
Compostable bags can be more expensive than traditional plastic bags, but the price difference often pays off in the long term. For businesses purchasing in bulk, many suppliers offer price breaks based on order volume, making it cost-effective for large businesses or distributors.
When comparing prices, be sure to factor in the quality, certifications, and material used, as cheaper alternatives may not provide the same environmental benefits.
5. Supply Chain Stability: Reliable Delivery and Availability
Supply chain reliability is critical for businesses that rely on timely deliveries. Make sure to partner with suppliers who have a track record of consistent delivery and scalable production to meet both short-term and long-term needs.
6. Eco-Friendly and Ethical Practices
Beyond the bags themselves, consider a supplier’s sustainability practices. Do they use renewable energy? What steps are they taking to reduce their carbon footprint? Suppliers who are committed to reducing their environmental impact are more likely to align with your business’s sustainability goals.
Top Compostable Bag Suppliers to Consider in 2025
When it comes to sourcing compostable bags, here are the top suppliers to consider:
- HEMCBags – Based in China, HEMCBags provides cost-effective and customizable compostable bags with certifications like EN 13432 and ASTM D6400. They offer bulk orders and flexible solutions.
- BioBag – A global leader in biodegradable products, BioBag’s bags are made from plant-based materials and meet industry certifications like ASTM D6400 and EN 13432.
- TIPA – Specializing in home-compostable packaging, TIPA offers bags designed to break down in home compost bins, certified to OK Compost HOME standards.
- Novamont – Known for their Mater-Bi® bioplastics, Novamont produces high-quality compostable bags that are ideal for industrial and commercial use, certified under EN 13432.
- BioPak – BioPak offers compostable bags ideal for the foodservice industry, certified by OK Compost. Their bags are perfect for restaurants looking to adopt eco-friendly packaging solutions.
Conclusion
Selecting the best compostable bags supplier for your business is a critical decision that impacts both your sustainability goals and your customer satisfaction. By considering factors like certifications, material quality, customization options, and price, you can find a reliable supplier that meets your needs. With more businesses shifting towards eco-friendly practices, sourcing compostable bags will not only improve your brand image but also contribute to a more sustainable future.
