Compostable vs Biodegradable vs Plastic Bags: Understanding the Difference, Legal Compliance & Certification in India

Plastic has long been the convenient choice for packaging and carrying goods — but convenience has come at a devastating cost. In India, single-use plastics have choked drains, filled landfills, and entered our food chain as microplastics. Even as the government imposes bans, many businesses remain confused about the right alternatives: biodegradable vs compostable vs plastic-like “eco” bags.

At India Corporation, a leading CPCB-certified compostable bag supplier in Kolhapur, we believe clarity is key. Knowing the difference helps businesses stay legally compliant while genuinely protecting the environment.

Let’s decode these three bag types and understand what makes compostable bags the only certified, lawful, and sustainable option in India.

1. The Plastic Problem: Convenience That Costs Centuries

Plastic bags are made from petroleum-based polymers such as polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP). They take 500 to 1,000 years to decompose and, during that time, release toxic chemicals into soil and water.

Every year, India generates over 3.4 million tonnes of plastic waste — and roughly 40% of that comes from single-use plastics. Even worse, much of it is non-recyclable.

Environmental impact of plastic bags:

• Take centuries to degrade.

• Release microplastics and toxins into soil and oceans.

• Harm marine and animal life.

• Clog drains and aggravate flooding in urban areas.

• Cause health issues through plastic ingestion and air pollution from burning waste.

Maharashtra was among the first states to ban single-use plastic carry bags under the Maharashtra Plastic and Thermocol Products (Manufacture, Usage, Sale, Transport, Handling and Storage) Notification, 2018. Yet, despite the ban, alternatives like “biodegradable” bags often continue to slip through — not all of them compliant with law.

2. Biodegradable Bags: The Misunderstood Middle Ground

The term “biodegradable” sounds green — but it often isn’t. Many so-called biodegradable bags in the market are actually oxodegradable or fragmentable plastics. These are ordinary plastics with additives that help them break into smaller pieces faster, but they don’t fully decompose.

They leave behind microplastics, invisible but dangerous particles that remain in the environment, soil, and water for decades.

The problem:

• No standard biodegradation timeframe.

• Often made with fossil-based materials.

• Can’t be composted at home or in industrial composters.

• Not approved under CPCB (Central Pollution Control Board) compostable norms.

• Selling or distributing them can lead to legal penalties.

Verdict: Biodegradable ≠ Compostable. They are not recognized as a legal alternative to plastic bags in India.

3. Compostable Bags: The Certified Sustainable Alternative

Now, let’s talk about the real solution — compostable bags. These are made from plant-based starch and natural polymers such as PLA (Polylactic Acid). Unlike plastic or “biodegradable” bags, compostable bags undergo complete decomposition into compost, carbon dioxide, and water — typically within 180 days under composting conditions.

🌿 Key Benefits of Compostable Bags

• Made from renewable plant materials.

• 100% plastic-free and non-toxic.

• Fully composts within 6 months (CPCB standard).

• Reduces landfill waste and enriches soil.

• Safe for food, retail, and packaging applications.

At India Corporation, all compostable carry bags, grocery bags, and garbage bags are CPCB and ISO certified, ensuring they meet India’s strict biodegradability standards and labeling norms.

4. Legal and Certification Requirements in India

If you are a manufacturer, distributor, or seller of compostable bags in India, here’s what the law says:

🧾 Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) Norms

Under the Plastic Waste Management (PWM) Rules, 2016, amended in 2018 and 2021:

• Only CPCB-certified compostable plastics are allowed as alternatives to banned single-use plastics.

• The bags must conform to IS/ISO 17088:2021 standards.

• Manufacturers must obtain CPCB certification before selling or distributing compostable bags.

• Every bag must bear the certification number, manufacturer’s name, and “Compostable” label as per rules.

• Compostable bags must not be mixed with conventional plastic waste.

⚖️ Legal Implications for Non-Compliance

Using or selling unapproved biodegradable or plastic bags can lead to:

• Fines under the Maharashtra Plastic Ban Act (2018).

• Seizure of goods by the local pollution control authorities.

• Legal action under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.

In short:
✅ Compostable = Legal & Certified
❌ Biodegradable = Often Illegal & Misleading
❌ Plastic = Banned & Hazardous

5. India Corporation’s Commitment to Compliance and Quality

At India Corporation, we ensure full compliance with CPCB and BIS regulations. Our compostable bags are manufactured using plant starch–based resins, tested for biodegradability, and certified to meet IS/ISO 17088:2021 standards.

Every bag we supply — whether W-Cut, D-Cut, Grocery, or Garbage Bag — carries proper labeling and certification marks. This guarantees that when a business buys from India Corporation, it gets:

• Legally approved, CPCB-certified compostable bags.

• Products compliant with state and national environmental laws.

• Reliable, eco-friendly solutions suitable for all commercial and retail uses.

• Assurance that your business won’t face penalties for plastic violations.

Our goal is simple — to help Kolhapur and India transition towards sustainable, legally compliant packaging.

6. Why Businesses Must Choose the Right Supplier

Many businesses unknowingly purchase unverified “biodegradable” bags to avoid fines, not realizing that such products do not meet CPCB standards. The right supplier ensures you stay compliant, avoid penalties, and genuinely contribute to sustainability.

When you partner with India Corporation, you’re choosing:

• A verified compostable bag supplier in Kolhapur.

• 100% plastic-free, plant-based, and CPCB-certified products.

• A supplier that understands environmental law, compliance, and certifications.

• A brand that values long-term sustainability over shortcuts.

Final Thoughts

The real difference between plastic, biodegradable, and compostable bags lies in truth and compliance. Compostable bags are not just an alternative — they are the only scientifically and legally approved solution that aligns with India’s environmental goals.

If you are a retailer, wholesaler, or business owner, make sure your packaging choices are both eco-friendly and compliant.

Choose responsibly. Choose legally. Choose India Corporation —
your trusted compostable bag supplier in Kolhapur, helping India go plastic-free, one certified bag at a time. 🌿

📞 Call: +91 8788346434 | 7588223452
📧 Email: sales@indiacorporation.in
🌐 Visit: www.indiacorporation.in
📍 Address: 254, Hira Manik Bunglow, Ruikar Colony, Kolhapur – 416005