Packaging has a bigger environmental footprint than many businesses realise, especially when conventional materials are designed for short-term use but remain in the environment for much longer. Compostable packaging offers an alternative by using materials designed to break down under specific composting conditions. However, choosing compostable packaging is not simply a matter of replacing plastic with a “green” material. Businesses need to understand certification, disposal requirements, product suitability, and real-world performance. This guide explains how compostable packaging works, where it fits best, what to consider before switching, and how businesses can make more practical packaging decisions without compromising functionality or customer expectations.