Which compostable bin liners are allowed? The BioAbfV explains!

The proper disposal of organic waste is an important issue for all of us. However, the question "Which organic waste bags are allowed?" often causes uncertainty. At BioGlück, we want to provide clarity and offer a reliable solution that simplifies your daily life and protects the environment.

We know from our own experience: There is hardly anything more frustrating than an organic waste bin left unemptied due to incorrect bags or organic waste starting to "seep" at home. The legal situation has also drastically tightened: Since May 1, 2025, extremely strict limit values for foreign matter apply nationwide due to the revised Organic Waste Ordinance (BioAbfV). Find out here what to do if your organic waste bin was rejected.

1. The Bioplastic Trap: Why "Compostable" Is Often Forbidden

In supermarkets, "compostable" organic waste bags made of bioplastic seem like the ideal solution. But for disposal companies (such as EBU in Ulm or AWB in Neu-Ulm), they are a massive problem.

The 6-Week Check: Theory vs. Reality

Certified bioplastic bags (according to DIN EN 13432) can take up to 12 weeks to decompose in the laboratory. However, modern industrial plants operate in high-speed mode: the fermentation and composting process there often takes only 3 to 6 weeks.

• The result: The bag acts like "slow food" in a "fast food" environment. When the compost is ready, the bag is still intact.
• The consequence: Since near-infrared scanners can barely distinguish bioplastic from conventional plastic, every film is sorted out and incinerated. Even the ZDF WISO magazine warns against this deceptive packaging. Read more about the problem of compostable films here.

2. The Financial Guide: How to Avoid the "Red Card" (up to €80 in Costs)

Disposal companies today use modern collection vehicles with contaminant detectors that scan plastics even during the tipping process. The card system used in many regions is merciless:

• Yellow Card: Last emptying despite contaminants.
• Red Card: The bin remains unemptied.
• The cost trap: Anyone who receives a "red card" must laboriously re-sort the bin or order an expensive special emptying, which often costs up to 80 euros. High-quality paper waste bags for the bin cost only a fraction of this fee.

3. Why Kraft Paper Is the Only True Solution

While bioplastics overwhelm sorting facilities, high-quality kraft paper is chemically pure cellulose – just like leaves or wood.

• Structural material: Paper serves as a valuable carbon source in the composting process and optimizes the C/N ratio.
• Breathability: Unlike plastic, paper is permeable to vapor. Moisture evaporates, and the waste dries instead of rotting under anaerobic conditions. Dry waste smells significantly less. Learn more about the advantages of paper bags here.
• BioGlück Quality: We use 80g/m² strong paper. Our 10L bags with block bottoms offer maximum stability, while the version with handles facilitates transport.

4. Free Paper Bags for Organic Waste?

Many cities like Hamburg, Nuremberg, or Braunschweig provide citizens with free paper bags for organic waste. This is a great contribution to environmental protection!

However, if your municipality does not offer bags or you are dissatisfied with their tear resistance, we have a solution: We will give you the value of our BioGlück starter pack. You only pay a small flat fee for shipping and handling.

👉 Request your (almost) free paper bag test set now

5. Pro Hacks Against Seepage, Odor, and Maggots

No one resorts to plastic out of malice – it's usually disgust at dirt. These tips solve the problem:

1. The "Egg Carton Bridge": Line the bottom of the paper bag with a piece of egg carton or crumpled newspaper. This immediately absorbs leachate.
2. Drain: Let coffee filters and tea bags drain briefly in the sink. "Soup does not belong in the organic waste bin."
3. Supplement hygienically: Our organic waste bin powder binds moisture and neutralizes odors naturally.
4. Winter Check: Prevent your organic waste from freezing in winter with structural material at the bottom.

6. The BioGlück Cycle: Regional Pride

From plate to tank and back to the field: If you dispose of organic waste correctly, it becomes biogas and high-quality, microplastic-free compost for regional fields. At BioGlück, we think this cycle through to the end: from the clean bin to new life through our organic open-pollinated seeds. Learn more about the BioGlück Garden Cycle.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use newspaper? Yes! Modern newspaper printing inks are harmless. However, glossy magazines are taboo.

Why does my city ban bioplastics despite the seal? Because local facilities must comply with federal requirements of the BioAbfV. The short rotting times override any product certificate. Paper bags are the safest choice here.

What can actually go into the bin? You can find a list in our guide. Caution: Many foods do not belong in organic waste.

Manage organic waste smartly now

To the paper organic waste bags | To the organic waste bin powder