Why Choose Compostable Packaging?

At Ward Packaging, we believe sustainable packaging is no longer optional. It’s essential for businesses that want to reduce waste, meet customer expectations, and comply with Western Australia’s single-use plastic bans. Traditional plastics and single-use materials are damaging our planet, contributing to climate change and plastic pollution. To build a greener future, businesses must move from a linear economy (take, make, dispose) to a circular economy where resources are reused, recycled, and regenerated.

Compostable Packaging and Sustainability

Our trusted partner, BioPak, is leading this transition with a wide range of compostable packaging solutions in Australia. Their products are designed to minimise environmental impact at every stage of their life cycle. Made from renewable resources such as FSC™-certified wood, recycled paper, and reclaimed natural materials, they provide a lower carbon footprint compared to conventional plastics. By choosing these products, you’re supporting an eco-friendly supply chain that aligns with WA’s sustainability goals.

Reducing Waste and Costs

Switching to eco-friendly food packaging doesn’t just benefit the planet. It can also lower operational costs. Compostable food packaging and food scraps can be placed in the same collection bin, keeping organic waste out of landfill. Instead of creating harmful greenhouse gases, these materials are turned into nutrient-rich compost that supports soil health. For many businesses, this also reduces waste collection costs and simplifies disposal.

The Future of Packaging in WA

Choosing compostable packaging in Western Australia is more than a compliance measure. It’s a commitment to protecting the environment, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and showing your customers that your business values sustainability. By making the switch today, you’re helping create a cleaner, greener future for your business and the community.

📊 Did you know?

In 2023-24, Western Australia’s overall recycling rate reached 65%.

Why it matters: More packaging and organic waste is being diverted from landfill, supporting WA’s circular economy.

Source: WA Government, 2023-24

Only 11% of WA households (as of 2022) had access to FOGO bins that accept compostable bags.

Why it matters: Limited composting infrastructure means compostable packaging often ends up in landfill.

Source: The New Daily, 2024

📊 Did you know?

Waste recovery in WA has increased by 81% since 2014-15, from 2.7M to 4.8M tonnes (2023-24).

Why it matters: Stronger infrastructure and behaviour change mean eco packaging can be recovered more effectively.

Source: Waste Authority WA, 2024

Municipal solid waste per person in WA has dropped from 625kg to 481kg between 2014-15 and 2023-24.

Why it matters: Less waste per capita opens the door for sustainable packaging to play a larger role in reducing landfill.

Source: Waste Authority WA, 2024

Composting for the Future

At Ward Packaging, we believe composting is the most sustainable end-of-life solution for both food waste and compostable food packaging. Today and into the future, it offers a practical way to reduce landfill and protect the environment.

Instead of sending valuable resources to landfill, composting transforms food scraps and packaging waste into nutrient-rich compost. This process captures carbon, enriches soil health, and creates positive flow-on effects for plants, agriculture, and the environment.

Partnering with Compost Connect

We proudly support Compost Connect, a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to lifting composting rates across Australia and New Zealand. Compost Connect connects foodservice businesses to local commercial composters, helping divert organic waste from landfill and turning it into a resource. Their mission is to make composting accessible, practical, and mainstream.

Why Certified Compostable Packaging Matters

Certified compostable packaging makes disposing of food waste easy and convenient. Everything can go into one bin. This not only supports better waste management but also helps reduce landfill and greenhouse gas emissions while contributing to a circular economy.

Current Challenges in Compostable Packaging

Disposal: Compostable packaging only works if it is collected and processed correctly. With no national mandate for FOGO (Food Organics and Garden Organics) collection in Australia or New Zealand, access to composting services is inconsistent.

Materials: Not all compostable packaging is home-compostable yet. As innovation continues, new materials are evolving to make sustainable packaging even more accessible.

Greenwashing: Misleading claims are common in the packaging industry. Without proper certification, many so-called “compostable” products risk misleading businesses and consumers. Always look for the Certified Compostable Logo, the only trusted standard in Australia and New Zealand.

What You Can Do Now

Together, we can increase composting rates, reduce waste, and create lasting environmental change. Here’s how:

• Advocate for change: Encourage your local council to adopt stronger composting targets. You can also sign Compost Connect’s petition or write to your MP.

• Support the right businesses: As a consumer, choose cafes, restaurants, and foodservice providers that have composting systems in place.

• Take action as a business: Check if a compost pick-up service is available in your area and implement it where possible.

• Recognise certified products: Learn to identify the Certified Compostable Logo and support companies offering genuine, certified compostable packaging.

Building a Circular Future

Composting is more than waste management. It is a pathway to a circular economy. By working together — individuals, businesses, councils, and suppliers — we can reduce food waste, lower emissions, and create healthier soils for generations to come.