"Compostable" means that a product is capable of disintegrating into natural elements in a compost environment (or compost facility), leaving no toxicity in the soil. A "compost environment" (or facility) is a place where there is a perfect balance of oxygen, moisture and heat to break down plant-based and organic materials. The main advantage of using compostable products is that they are made from plant-based raw materials. Crops like corn, sugarcane, and bamboo are annually renewable, which make them great resources. On the other hand, petroleum based plastics made from non renewable resources such as gas, oil, and coal are non-compostable. Plant-based products compost and become an extremely valuable source in many communities, whereas traditional plastic cannot be composted.

Manufacturing compostable products use less energy, creates fewer greenhouse gas emissions, and releases no toxic chemicals when burnt in an incinerator. They break down in commercial composting facilities within 3 to 6 months. Petroleum-based plastics take a very long time to produce and are being used at an unsustainable rate. Therefore, instead of using Petro-chemical based plastics that create toxicity and environmental pollution, compostable products are a much more environmental-friendly and sustainable alternative.