Biodegradable packaging: what works and what doesn’t
As demand for sustainable alternatives to plastic continues to rise, biodegradable packaging has emerged as a promising solution. From compostable films to mushroom-based insulation, the packaging sector is rapidly innovating in pursuit of materials that perform well—and break down safely at the end of their lifecycle.
But while biodegradable packaging may sound ideal, not all materials deliver on their environmental promise. Some only degrade under industrial conditions, others fall short in protection, and many introduce challenges in logistics, disposal, or regulatory compliance.
At Hydropac, we believe in balancing environmental responsibility with product performance. In this article, we explore what truly works in biodegradable packaging, what doesn’t, and how our temperature-controlled sustainable packaging solutions fit into the future of eco-friendly logistics and material design.
Hydropac offers every customer a customized solution for chilled and conditioned shipping. For example, we help a customer with limited freezing capacity to deliver gel packs frozen and ready to use, and we can manufacture almost all shapes and sizes of cooling elements. As a customer, you come first: we are here to help you.
What are biodegradable packaging materials and how do they work?
Biodegradable packaging is made from organic materials—such as plant starches, cellulose, or bioplastics like PLA (polylactic acid)—designed to break down through microbial activity. These materials can degrade into water, carbon dioxide, and biomass, leaving behind no long-term pollutants under the right conditions.
However, much of this degradation occurs only in a commercial composting facility, where temperature, humidity, and oxygen levels are regulated. In natural environments or landfills, even compostable plastics may behave like traditional plastics—persisting for years and contributing to pollution.
For Hydropac, assessing these materials for use in temperature-sensitive packaging involves rigorous testing around moisture resistance, insulation, and the full life cycle of the material.
Source: https://meyers.com/meyers-blog/what-is-biodegradable-packaging/
Proven biodegradable packaging materials that deliver
Mushroom packaging for protective cushioning
Mushroom packaging, made from mycelium—the root structure of fungi—is emerging as a high-performance alternative to polystyrene. It’s home compostable, non-toxic, and requires little water or energy to produce. As a rigid form, it works well for protecting fragile items like electronics or glass jars.
That said, its insulating properties are limited, making it less suitable for cold chain pharmaceutical packaging or frozen food shipping where stable internal temperatures are critical.
Source: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0308814624043024
Plant-based biodegradable films and coatings
Biodegradable films created from seaweed, starch, and corn-based polymers offer flexibility, transparency, and compostability—making them ideal for wrapping dry goods or short-life food packaging. These films align with sustainable practices and offer a friendly alternative to single-use plastic.
However, most are vulnerable to moisture and do not perform well under fluctuating temperature conditions. Hydropac continues to assess their application in secondary packaging layers for outer wrapping and low-barrier protective functions.
Source: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0308814624043024
Where biodegradable packaging fails: performance and confusion
Misconceptions around compostability
A significant challenge lies in consumer behaviour and disposal methods. Materials like PLA, often labelled as biodegradable or compostable, only decompose in an industrial composter. In home compost bins or landfill waste streams, they may not break down at all—risking contamination of soil and misleading sustainability claims.
At Hydropac, we promote transparency around packaging end-of-life scenarios and design every eco-friendly packaging solution with clear, accurate disposal instructions—minimising landfill waste and maximising effectiveness.
Source: https://www.greenmatters.com/p/biodegradable-packaging-problems
Durability and cost trade-offs
Biodegradable packaging materials often lack the durability of conventional plastics. They can absorb moisture, lose strength during transport, and reduce shelf life for perishable goods. Moreover, they’re often more expensive—up to 50% more—depending on the raw materials used.
For temperature-sensitive deliveries, especially in food and medical supply chains, performance remains non-negotiable. Hydropac’s strategy is to combine recyclable materials with selective use of compostable packaging where suitable—ensuring both functional reliability and environmental benefit.
Disposal realities: what happens after use?
Even the most sustainable packaging loses its value if it ends up in the wrong waste stream. Compostable materials can become non-degradable contaminants when mixed with regular recycling or disposed of improperly. In fact, bioplastics in landfill often behave like traditional plastics due to the lack of oxygen and microbial activity.
To prevent contamination of soil and water supplies, Hydropac emphasises correct disposal routes and works with customers to educate end users about friendly disposal methods. Our approach is guided by life cycle thinking—from raw materials to end-of-life scenarios.
Source: https://www.greenmatters.com/p/biodegradable-packaging-problems
Environmental and health risks: the consequences of poor design
Poorly managed biodegradable waste doesn’t just create landfill bulk—it can release harmful toxins into groundwater or break into microplastic fragments, disrupting aquatic ecosystems and increasing health risks. These outcomes contradict the purpose of biodegradable design and highlight the need for improved waste management strategies.
At Hydropac, we ensure that materials chosen for our eco-friendly food packaging are free from harmful additives, compliant with safety standards, and compatible with certified compost environments.
Conclusion: choose biodegradable packaging that performs and protects
Biodegradable packaging has incredible potential to reduce the environmental harm caused by plastic pollution and single-use packaging. But real impact only comes when materials are matched to use cases, supported by infrastructure, and clearly communicated to consumers.
What works? Mushroom packaging for cushioning, plant-based films for dry goods, and compostable plastics—when supported by proper disposal systems. What doesn’t? Generic claims, poor moisture control, and packaging that ends up in the wrong bin.
At Hydropac, we champion intelligent packaging that combines recyclable, reusable, and biodegradable options depending on need—always driven by data, regulatory alignment, and climate goals. The future of packaging isn’t just green—it’s smart, transparent, and tailored to what really works.
Sustainability Hydropac and CSR
Sustainability isn’t just a trend for us – it’s a promise. As we innovate, create, and lead, we keep our planet’s well-being at the forefront. With Hydropac, you’re not just preserving the quality of your cargo; you’re contributing to a healthier world.
Experience the power of sustainable temperature assurance with Hydropac – where excellence and environmental responsibility coexist for a brighter future.
