Compostable Packaging  

Dewberry’s bedding is proudly packaged in TIPA® compostable packaging which biodegrades into nourishing compost, leaving behind the same nutrients left by organic waste.  

Why we prefer compost to recycling?

Over 40% of consumer products are protected via a flexible plastic package – the packaging that is lightweight with a shape that can readily be changed when filled or during use. Historically less than 4% of flexible packaging gets recycled. Unlike rigid plastics, flexible plastic packaging lacks a circular solution because it is often made by blending several materials, is contaminated by food, and is too lightweight for separation and recycling. Conventional flexible plastic is the #1 polluting source to our oceans, with a minimum of 5M tons (of 11M) discarded each year to sea. 

TIPA®’s game-changing technology, has addressed this problem by creating a package that feels like plastic, looks like plastic and has the properties of traditional plastic: there’s just one difference – it has the same end of life as organic matter.  

What is the difference between biodegradable and compostable?

Compostable and biodegradable, are commonly-used terms in conversations surrounding sustainability initiatives for packaging materials—but what is the difference? 

Composting and biodegradation both involve natural degradation or the breakdown of organic matter into the earth through digestion by microorganisms.  

Biodegradability refers to the natural breakdown of materials into their original components, such as carbon, nitrogen, and oxygen. In theory, all chemical compounds have the potential to be biodegradable given the right conditions, eventually decomposing over time, but that time could be hundreds or thousands of years. For example, wood is biodegradable, but wooden structures don’t break down and can stand for generations. Similarly, trees are biodegradable but can remain standing for hundreds of years.

For biodegradation to occur, materials need to be exposed to microorganisms, bacteria, or fungi. Conditions that can affect the biodegradation process include temperature, light, water, and oxygen. The amount of exposure to these different elements can increase or decrease the time it takes for materials to biodegrade. 

Composting is a form of biodegradation; If a material is compostable, it means that under composting conditions (heat, humidity, oxygen, & microorganisms) it will break down to CO2, water, and a nutrient-rich compost within a specific time frame. Unlike biodegradation, which is an entirely natural process, composting requires human intervention. 

Why is ‘compostable’ better than ‘biodegradable’? 

When a sustainable packaging is labeled as 'compostable', you can be sure that it will undergo disintegration within a maximum of 180 days when subjected to composting conditions. Composting Dewberry’s TIPA® packaging, means not only that it won't end up in a landfill, but that the compost produced would return organic matter to the soil.  

What to do with bedding packaging once you decide to dispose of it? 

After your bedding arrives, simply put the packaging (no need to remove the sticker) in your home compost, community compost, or industrial compost where accepted, and the package will decompose within 24 weeks. (it is always better to check your package for instructions). 

TIPA® compostable packaging cannot be recycled with other plastics and will contaminate a plastic recycling waste stream. Please do not place your bedding packaging in the recycling bin.