Biodegradable, Compostable & Recyclable Packaging

Technology

Thermoformed products made from Good Earth™ materials are manufactured with an additive which renders them biodegradable and compostable while maintaining the desired characteristics of each specific material. These packages have the same mechanical and physical properties as when using the typical resins yet when disposed of, are able to be metabolized into inert biomass by microorganisms.

The biodegradation process can take place aerobically and anaerobically with or without the presence of light. These factors allow for biodegradation even in landfill conditions which are normally inconducive to any degradation. The sheeting used to make these packages differs significantly from other “degradable plastics” in the market as it does not attempt to replace the current popular materials but instead enhances them by rendering them biodegradable. They are also the most cost effective environmentally friendly alternative on the market today.

Many degradable plastics introduced to date have weaknesses. Oxo-degradable products for example do not degrade in landfills due to the lack of sunlight. Typically another layer of trash is added before the degradation can occur. These oxo-degradable products also present difficult circumstances for storage before use due to their reactivity to light. Similarly, material made with high amounts of cornstarch and cottonseed fillers fail to break down the molecular structure of the components, are very expensive to manufacture, and often do not achieve the requisite physical properties.

The proven additive technology utilized enables microorganisms in the environment to metabolize the molecular structure of the material into an inert humus-like form that is harmless to the environment. When combined with heat and moisture, the swelling agent modifies the film structure and attracts microorganisms that metabolize and neutralize the plastic.

Independent labs have concluded that these materials degrade under both aerobic and anaerobic conditions and that they do not produce any toxic residue harmful to living organisms in land or water.

All Good Earth™ products have the same physical, mechanical, and performance characteristics as the products they replace. Certain FDA approved materials made with recycled content are also available

All materials are recyclable and can be mixed with non degradable products without contaminating recycling operations