That depends… The size of the label and the inks used on that label can have more impact on whether your packaging is compostable or not. All compost facilities accept a certain level of “contamination” in small amounts, and labels are often a part of that. We therefore recommend keeping your labels to the minimum size required to communicate your message (or seal your package!). Also, make sure you check with your label provider about all 5 components of the labels you’re using to get a sense of your label sustainability:
1. The paper or plastic material of the label itself
2. The inks used to print your labels
3. The type of adhesive used (this is the nasty stuff, in most cases!)
4. The coating, if any, applied on your label to give it a shiny or matte finish
5. The backer that the label ships to you on – is it as sustainable as possible.
Our label partner currently provides us with a 100% post-consumer label printed with UV-cured inks on a micro-liner, recyclable backer. We consider this one of the most sustainable options at a real-world price point. Certified compostable labels (which you can make as big as you want!) are getting there, but we’ve found they’re still out of a realistic price range for most of our customers. We’re expecting more development in this area in the very near future.