Various
plastic bag manufacturers probably use the term “biodegradability” –
shall we say – loosely and lightly. The ASTM D6400 specification puts a
kibosh on all of that. Basically, the specification requires that the
material is fully tested to ensure that it will degrade at a similar
rate as an apple (composting), and that no large plastic fragments
should remain.
More than likely, the loose and light manufacturers’ bags do not meet
biodegradable/compostable standards of any sort, and are just regular
plastic bags. All in all, bag manufacturers – who claim their bags are
biodegradable or compostable but do not meet the ASTM specifications –
are misleading consumers and are acting negligently towards the
environment.
California’s law, SB 1749, maintains that bags should meet the ASTM
D6400 specification for compostable product claims. Several other states
are also instituting policies like California. The Original PoopBags
proudly meet this standard, and our other bags meet national ASTM
certifications as well.
Additional Facts about Poop Bags:
– Made from a combination of corn and other renewable products.
– Shelf stable just like paper plates or paper towels.
– There are no chemical additives to enhance decomposition. The bags
degrade naturally when exposed to the earth’s elements and
micro-organisms in the soil.
– “Breathe” – allowing heat and moisture to escape or evaporate. This
feature reduces bacterial build-up of collected waste, thus reducing
odor.
– Will decompose in a commercial composting environment between 60 and 90 days after use. PoopBags.com strongly urges consumers not to
place feces-filled bags into home composting systems or green bins as
this could lead to E.coli contamination. Basically, dogs eat meat.
– Will decompose in a natural setting at an extended rate comparable
to other naturally compostable materials, such as paper, leaves and food
waste.
If the poop bags are placed in an “open” or “turned” landfill they
will decompose at a rate similar to other biodegradable/compostable
materials in the same setting.
biodegradable/compostable products will degrade – even banana peels.
