Environmental groups warn of "greenwashing" with "biodegradable" coffee capsules

Environmental organizations Deutsche Umwelthilfe (DUH) and Bundesgütegemeinschaft Kompost (BGK) have warned about environmental claims surrounding "biodegradable" coffee capsules, coinciding with International Coffee Day. The groups argue that these capsules, often made from bioplastics, are not sustainable and create significant environmental issues.

Despite companies marketing these capsules as "ecological" or "compostable," DUH and BGK emphasize they must not be disposed of with organic waste. Bioplastic capsules can contaminate compost with plastic residues, making their separation from organic matter costly and inefficient. New German regulations on organic waste management also prohibit the introduction of such capsules into the bio-waste stream.

According to DUH, coffee capsule production, regardless of material, is resource-intensive and damaging to the climate. In 2019, an estimated 3.4 billion coffee capsules were consumed in Germany, generating 13,500 tons of aluminum, plastic, and paper waste. The organizations accuse coffee companies of "greenwashing" to improve their image with these biodegradable products.

David Wilken, CEO of BGK, clarified that all capsules must be sorted out at composting facilities. "Biodegradable plastics can significantly disrupt the composting process because they do not decompose sufficiently under practical conditions," Wilken stated. He added that they offer no benefit to the compost and can degrade its quality.

Both organizations recommend avoiding these plastic capsules and opting for more waste-free brewing methods such as reusable capsules, coffee makers with permanent filters, French presses, or traditional coffee machines for a more environmentally friendly coffee experience.