If you’ve ever stood over your garbage and recycling bins holding a package and thought,
“Where does this actually go?”
You’re not alone.
At TucTucs, sustainability isn’t a trendy add-on. It’s part of how we run the business, from the ingredients we choose to the way we pack and ship your treats.
That’s why we use BPI-certified compostable packaging for our treat bags.
In this post, we’ll break down:
- What compostable packaging actually means
- How to dispose of it properly (without the guilt spiral)
- Why we chose it in the first place
What does compostable actually mean?
Compostable means a material is designed to break down into natural components under composting conditions, leaving no harmful residue behind.
That’s different from:
- Recyclable: Can be processed into new materials (but only if your local system accepts it)
- Biodegradable: A term that sounds reassuring, but can be misleading depending on the material
- Compostable: Specifically designed to break down in composting environments
A quick (important) note about “biodegradable” packaging
In the pet industry, you’ll often see packaging marketed as biodegradable.
Sometimes, that means the product is still plastic-based, but includes an additive to help it break down faster.
The problem is simple. Breaking down isn’t the same as disappearing.
In some cases, plastic breaks down into microplastics. These are tiny pieces that are hard to see, hard to remove, and can spread through soil and waterways.
Why microplastics are a big deal:
- They can be eaten by wildlife and move up the food chain
- They persist in the environment for a long time
- They contribute to long-term pollution even when the packaging is “gone”
That’s one reason we don’t rely on vague biodegradable claims.
We choose certified compostable packaging instead.
What is the BPI certification?
BPI (Biodegradable Products Institute) certification is a third-party standard that verifies a product meets strict compostability requirements.
In simple terms, it helps avoid greenwashing and ensures the packaging has been tested against real standards.
Important for Canada: Composting rules vary by region, but many programs require certified compostable materials. The BPI logo is one of the most widely recognized certifications you’ll see.
Why we chose compostable bags for TucTucs
We make single-ingredient, freeze-dried treats because we care about what goes into pets’ bodies.
It didn’t feel right to pair that with packaging that contributes to long-term waste.
We chose compostable packaging because:
- It aligns with our values (small-batch, thoughtful, responsible)
- It reduces long-term environmental impact compared to conventional plastic
- It’s a practical step we can take right now, even as a small business
We also ship in recyclable cardboard boxes and keep packing materials minimal to reduce waste.
The honest truth: composting rules vary
This is the frustrating part. Composting programs aren’t the same everywhere.
Some municipalities accept compostable packaging in green bins. Others don’t. Some require industrial composting facilities.
So our approach is simple:
- We choose the most responsible packaging we can
- We share clear guidance
- We encourage you to follow your local rules (because that’s what actually works)
How to dispose of TucTucs compostable bags
In many parts of Canada, certified compostable packaging can go in green bin programs (sometimes called brown bins).
That said, rules vary, and they change.
The easiest way to check:
- Search: “your city compostable packaging green bin”
- Or check your local waste collection website or app
If you’re unsure, here’s the important part.
Even if your area doesn’t accept compostable packaging and it ends up in the garbage, it’s still a better choice than conventional plastic.
Compostable materials are designed to break down more naturally over time.
It’s not a perfect system yet, but choosing certified compostables helps support the shift toward better packaging and less long-term waste.
The takeaway
If you’re trying to make more thoughtful choices for your pets and the planet, you’re our kind of person.
Compostable packaging isn’t a magic fix, but it’s a meaningful step in the right direction. And we’re proud to build TucTucs around choices that reflect that.
If you ever have questions about our packaging, sourcing, or how we make our treats, we’re always happy to chat.
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