Composting Conversations: Insights from the 2024 BPI Summit

The recent Biodegradable Products Institute (BPI) Summit brought together industry leaders, composters, and innovators to discuss the latest trends and challenges in compostable packaging. As leaders in sustainable packaging solutions, our team was on hand to participate in important composting conversations.

Conference highlights included:

The Power of Art in Storytelling

Ben Von Wong, a renowned artist, kicked off the conference with a thought-provoking presentation on leveraging art to tell compelling stories about sustainability. He emphasized the need for fictional elements to help convey truthful, often difficult topics. Von Wong's message was clear: don't let a good crisis go to waste – use it to drive the message of the movement forward.

Composters' Perspectives

Representatives from Athens Services, Dirt Hugger, and A1 Organics shared their experiences and challenges:

  • Certifications: While compostable packaging may currently affect organic certification, the industry is poised to collaborate on innovative solutions, potentially creating new and exciting end-markets for non-certified organic compost usage
  • Material Specifications: Bio-plastics like PLA have great potential, as they can break down very effectively in proper composting conditions. The challenge lies in distinguishing them from non-compostable look-alikes in the waste stream. By improving sorting technologies and education, we can address contamination issues, which currently account for a significant portion of composting costs.
  • Processing Time: Cycle times varied from 45 to 120 days, highlighting the need for efficient processing to meet state goals and maintain profitability.
  • Product Focus: Composters emphasized that compost is a product, not just a way to make packaging disappear.

Quick-Service Restaurant Challenges

Chick-fil-A's Renata Neri provided insights into the challenges faced by global QSR brands:

  • Food Waste: The company has implemented organic collection programs in several cities, diverting 25 million lbs. from landfills in 2023.
  • Packaging Needs: Speed, accuracy, and maintaining food quality are crucial, sometimes at odds with sustainability goals.
  • Industry Hurdles: Fragmented legislation, consumer education, material availability, and infrastructure were cited as key challenges.

As the industry continues to evolve, progress requires collaboration, innovation, and a willingness to embrace both challenges and opportunities in the pursuit of more sustainable packaging solutions.