Eco-friendly vs biodegradable: what they mean and how to avoid greenwashing

In this article, we will explore what these terms really mean and how you can make a difference by changing your packaging choices.

Not all "green" packaging is created equal. In Singapore, once food packaging comes in contact with food, even if they are entirely made out of biodegradable materials, cannot be recycled and should be disposed of as general waste where they are sent to waste-to-energy plants for incineration. We will break it down to show you the real difference between eco-friendly and biodegradable packaging, expose how some companies misuse these terms to mislead consumers by overstating the positive environmental impact of their products (greenwashing), and explain how your business can make smarter choices that reduce carbon footprint and align with Singapore’s sustainable solid waste management efforts.

The difference between “eco-friendly” and “biodegradable”

Biodegradable means a product can break down naturally, usually by microorganisms, into non-toxic components. Think sugarcane bowls or cornstarch cutlery. Sounds good, right?

Not always. Here's the truth:

• Some “biodegradable” items only break down in specific industrial conditions.
• Others still leave microplastics or toxic residue.
• In Singapore, all contaminated waste, including biodegradable food containers, is incinerated, and not left to landfill to degrade. Hence, the use of biodegradable products is not necessarily better for the environment in our context.

Learn more about how NEA encourages everyone to play a part in the reduction of disposables here.

Eco-friendly, on the other hand, is a broader term. It refers to anything that causes less harm to the environment over its life cycle. This could include:

• Reusable packaging (like glass bottles or thick kraft bags).
• Materials from renewable sources (like FSC-certified paper).
• Products that reduce emissions, energy, or landfill waste.

Why this matters in Singapore

Singapore doesn’t have a nationwide composting system. Everything from oily takeaway boxes to biodegradable plastics ends up in general waste bins, where it's incinerated, not composted.

That’s the key: any food packaging that touches food, even kraft paper is no longer recyclable. Once soiled, it contaminates the recycling stream and is rejected. And recycling rates in Singapore are already low.

This means the best way to reduce carbon emissions isn’t just choosing recyclable materials. It’s choosing materials that:

• Avoid single use altogether,
• Can be reused multiple times,
• Minimise energy and emissions in production,
• Align with local waste systems.

Being eco-friendly in Singapore means designing around the reality that most waste is incinerated, not recycled or composted.

Greenwashing: the silent problem in packaging

Greenwashing happens when companies use sustainability buzzwords without backing them up. You’ve seen it:

• “Eco” printed on virgin plastic products
• “Biodegradable” products with no certification provided or explanation given
• Brown kraft packaging that looks earthy but is plastic-lined

These half-truths confuse consumers and give brands a “green” halo, while their packaging still ends up polluting or incinerated.

In Singapore, where proper recycling depends on user education and waste cleanliness, greenwashing makes it harder for people to dispose of items correctly. It actively contributes to higher landfill ash, increased incineration emissions, and a negative climate impact.

What responsible businesses in Singapore should do

If you run an F&B outlet, café, or gift shop, here’s how to be part of the solution:

• Choose materials that match Singapore’s waste system. Opt for compostable packaging only if you're working with composting partners.
• Avoid plastic-lined or mixed-material items that can’t be separated easily unless it’s really needed.
• Use clear disposal instructions on your packaging. A simple “Recycle if clean. Bin if greasy.” works wonders.
• Offer reusable options or incentives for customers when they play their part to reduce their carbon footprint.
• Be transparent. Don’t just promote your products as “eco”, ensure that your customers know how and why your products are better for the environment.

Eco-friendly isn’t just a label. It’s a responsibility.

In a city where most waste is incinerated, and where land is precious, every choice matters. Going beyond the buzzwords—choosing packaging that’s not just biodegradable on paper, but actually sustainable in practice—helps Singapore cut emissions, conserve resources, and move toward a truly circular economy.

Don’t greenwash. Be real. Be responsible. Be part of the shift.

Need packaging that is aligned with Singapore’s sustainability goals—and looks amazing while doing it? Explore CAARTN’s eco-conscious collection today.

♻️ Good for your brand. Better for the planet.