01What compostable means
In general, a compostable product is one that breaks down into natural material under composting conditions within a defined time. In many markets the word is regulated or tied to specific standards and third-party certification, and the conditions matter: an industrial composting facility runs hotter and faster than a backyard pile.
So a compostable claim has two parts: the material and process of the product, and whether your local collection actually accepts it.
02Why local collection decides
Some cities collect food waste and accept plant-fibre plates; others accept only food scraps; others have no organics collection at all. Even a product that is certified compostable only composts if it reaches a facility that takes it. Check your local rules before putting any plate in an organics bin.
- Check whether your area collects food waste or compost
- Check whether plates and fibre products are accepted
- When in doubt, follow the local instructions on your bin
03What ASH says — and doesn't
ASH plates are made from palm sheaths that fall from areca palm trees, pressed into shape with heat. We do not currently claim any compostability certification. If and when we hold supplier documentation for a certification, it will appear as a verified line on the product's spec sheet, linked to that document. Until then, our guidance is simple: Dispose of in food-waste or compost collection where accepted locally.
We think that's the honest way to talk about it. See the dinner plate spec sheet for what is documented today.
04Reading a compostable label
When a plate says compostable, look for three things: which standard it refers to, who certified it, and whether the certificate covers that exact product. A logo alone tells you little. Reputable brands will share the certificate or its number on request.
Also look at what the plate is made of. Plain plant fibre and plant fibre with a plastic or chemical coating behave differently in composting. Ask if you are unsure — and apply the same scrutiny to ASH.
05Why we don't round up
It would be easy to print a green leaf on the box and call it a day. We would rather show you exactly what is documented and label everything else as pending. That's the standard we hold our own spec sheets to, and it's the one we'd suggest you hold everyone to.
Questions
- Are ASH plates certified compostable?
- ASH does not currently claim a compostability certification. Any certification will appear on the product spec sheet only when backed by supplier documentation.
- Can I put palm leaf plates in my compost bin?
- It depends on your local collection. Dispose of in food-waste or compost collection where accepted locally.