Decoding Compostability: The Hippo Sak Saga
Composting doesn’t have to be complicated, but when it comes to products marketed as compostable or biodegradable, things can get a bit tricky. Enter the Hippo Sak, a compostable bag gaining attention for its eco-friendly claims.
The compay Crown Poly, based in Huntington Park, offers the Hippo Sak which has caught the eye of many, including Shark Tank’s Lori Greiner. The bag boasts compostability certifications from both U.S. and European organizations, and even got a shoutout from Greiner on Instagram.
Upon closer inspection, it’s revealed that the Hippo Sak is certified as compostable for commercial facilities and at-home piles by different organizations. This discrepancy in certifications has raised questions about the true compostability of these products.
Experts like Jennifer Brandon caution consumers to pay attention to the terms used by companies, as biodegradable and compostable are frequently used interchangeably. Plastics made from oil, gas, or fossil fuels may not truly biodegrade, adding to the confusion surrounding eco-friendly products.
Crown Poly claims that their Hippo Saks are made from 100 percent vegetable starches, ensuring that they are environmentally friendly. However, challenges arise when determining the actual degradation time of these compostable bags in various composting systems.
Despite their eco-friendly claims, the city of San Diego does not accept HippoSak products in their green bins, citing concerns over contamination and compost quality. The mixed messages surrounding compostable products reveal the complexities of environmental sustainability.
In Other News
- Stay tuned for a super-blue-full moon tonight, a rare celestial event worth catching.
- San Diego’s ongoing battle with Tijuana sewage spills and the federal government’s role in addressing the issue.
- Imperial Valley farmers’ agreement to reduce water usage from the Colorado River with assistance from San Diego.
- The Port of San Diego’s takeover of San Diego’s commercial fishing wharf near Point Loma.
- The struggles faced by San Diego flood survivors in finding affordable rentals post-disaster.
