What Is AS5810? Understanding Australia’s Home Compostable Standard

What Is AS5810? Understanding Australia’s Home Compostable Standard

If you’re in the hospitality or packaging space, you’ve probably heard the term AS5810 tossed around when it comes to sustainable products. But what exactly does it mean—and why does it matter?

What Is AS5810?

AS5810 is the Australian standard for home compostable products. It sets strict guidelines that packaging or single-use items (like straws) must meet to be safely broken down in a home composting environment, without industrial assistance.

  • To pass AS5810 testing, a product must:
  • Fully break down in a home compost within 180 days
  • Leave no toxic residue
  • Be safe for plants, worms, and soil organisms

Why This Standard Matters

Many products claim to be “biodegradable,” but that doesn’t always mean they’ll break down in your backyard. Some require high temperatures or controlled industrial facilities. AS5810-certified products ensure that even if tossed in a backyard compost, they’ll decompose cleanly and safely.

At PlanetPak, all of our straws meet this standard—and we proudly carry the ABA (Australian Bioplastics Association) certification to prove it.

How It Helps Your Business

Choosing AS5810-certified products isn’t just great for the environment—it’s smart for your brand. More customers are looking for:

  • Plastic-free alternatives
  • Authentic, certified sustainability
  • Companies aligned with their values

By using PlanetPak straws, you show your commitment to real change, not greenwashing.