At Silva Coffee Roasters, sustainability is at the heart of what we do. That’s why we’re proud to package our coffee in home-compostable bags. These eco-friendly bags not only protect the freshness of your coffee but also provide a way for you to contribute to a greener planet. Made in partnership with EcoBarista, who supplied us with these innovative bags, we’re excited to share how they work and how you can dispose of them responsibly.
How Home-Compostable Bags Work?
Our coffee bags are certified to the Australian home compostable standard AS 5810-2010, meaning they’re designed to decompose in a backyard compost system. While Australia’s infrastructure for compostable waste processing is still developing, these bags shine in home composting setups, breaking down in as little as 8–12 weeks under optimal conditions.
Even in landfill, these bags have a chance to break down naturally over time, though composting them at home is the most eco-conscious option. Thanks to our partnership with EcoBarista, these bags are crafted using materials (except for the degassing valve) that are fully home-compostable, ensuring that every detail aligns with our sustainability goals.
How are Home-Compostable Bags Made?
Our coffee bags are made from renewable materials like sugarcane, cassava, and corn, ensuring a sustainable and eco-friendly approach to packaging. Certified home compostable by the ABA (Australasian Bioplastics Association), these bags are designed to break down into organic matter in a simple home compost system after use. We love that this innovative material not only reduces waste but also contributes positively to the environment.
How to Dispose of Your Coffee Bag Responsibly
Follow these simple steps to make the most of your home-compostable coffee bag:
1. Remove the Degassing Valve
The degassing valve is essential for keeping your coffee fresh by releasing CO2 from freshly roasted beans while preventing air from entering the bag. While it plays an important role, it’s made from PET (plastic) and should be separated before composting. Simply peel off the valve—it’s quick and easy!
2. Peel Off the Coffee Label
Before composting the bag, remove the label sticker. While we are working on sourcing labels that can also be home compostable, for now, these stickers should be disposed of in general waste.
3. Recycle the Valve
Check with your local council to see if PET materials can be recycled in your area. If recycling isn’t an option, place the valve in your general rubbish bin.
4. Compost the Rest
The remaining bag, including the zipper, is 100% home-compostable. Add it to your garden compost bin and watch it decompose within approximately 12 weeks, depending on your composting conditions.
