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Guide
How to Dispose of Compostable PPE
Compostable PPE should be collected separately from general waste and processed through industrial composting, on-site biodigestion, or municipal organic waste collection—never mixed with regular recycling or sent to landfill.
Last reviewed: March 2026
Key Takeaway
Compostable PPE should be collected separately from general waste and processed through industrial composting, on-site biodigestion, or municipal organic waste collection—never mixed with regular recycling or sent to landfill.
DMO
Dr. Mary O'Riordan·Medical doctor specialising in infectious disease control
Step 1: Set Up Separate Collection
Establish dedicated collection bins for compostable PPE, clearly labelled and colour-coded (green is standard for organic waste). Position bins at PPE disposal points throughout your facility. Train staff on the difference between compostable and regular PPE.
Step 2: Check for Contamination
Compostable PPE contaminated with bodily fluids may require different handling depending on local regulations. In most cases, contaminated items can still be processed through high-temperature biodigestion. Consult your waste management provider for guidance on clinical waste classification.
Step 3: Choose Your Processing Method
Three main options exist: 1) Industrial composting facility collection, 2) On-site biodigestion using a HaPPE biodigester, or 3) Municipal organic waste collection where available. On-site biodigestion offers the fastest processing (24 hours) and eliminates transport emissions.
Step 4: Track and Report
Record volumes of compostable PPE diverted from landfill for ESG reporting. If using a biodigester, the integrated monitoring system automatically tracks inputs and outputs. This data supports CSRD and ESRS-E5 compliance reporting.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Compostable plastics can contaminate recycling streams. They must be processed through composting or biodigestion, not recycling.
In landfill conditions (low oxygen), compostable materials break down much slower and may produce methane. Always divert to proper composting or biodigestion.
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