How to Responsibly Dispose of Biodegradable Phone Cases
- Simply Herbs
- Apr 14
- 3 min read
An Herbalist’s Guide to Earth-Friendly Living
By Simply Herbs
As stewards of nature, many herbalists and eco-conscious individuals seek sustainable solutions not only in their gardens and apothecaries, but also in everyday items—like phone cases. Biodegradable phone cases offer a simple yet powerful way to reduce plastic waste. However, to make a true impact, these cases must be disposed of properly so they can return to the earth as intended.
This guide outlines what biodegradable phone cases are made of, how they break down, and how to responsibly dispose of them to support a circular, waste-free lifestyle.
What Are Biodegradable Phone Cases Made Of?
Biodegradable phone cases are made from plant-based, compostable materials that naturally decompose over time.
At Simply Herbs, our cases are crafted from:
PBAT (polybutylene adipate terephthalate) – a compostable biopolymer
PLA (polylactic acid) – derived from corn starch and sugarcane
Bamboo fibers – a renewable resource known for its strength and sustainability
These materials allow the case to fully biodegrade in approximately 160 days under proper composting conditions—much faster than traditional plastic, which can take hundreds of years.
Additionally, Simply Herbs Cases are compatible with wireless charging.
Why Proper Disposal Matters
Even biodegradable materials won’t break down effectively if they end up in the wrong environment—such as landfills, which lack the oxygen and microbial life needed for decomposition. To ensure that a phone case returns safely to the soil without leaving behind microplastics or toxic residue, proper disposal is essential.
Step-by-Step: How to Dispose of Biodegradable Phone Cases
1. Check the Label or Manufacturer Instructions
Before disposing of your case, review any care or disposal guidelines. Some compostable products may require industrial conditions to fully break down. Make sure to check if the case is "industrially compostable" or "home compostable".
2. Compost at Home (If Suitable)
If the case is approved for home composting:
Cut or break it into smaller pieces to speed up decomposition (the smaller the better!)
Add it to your compost pile or bin with other organic waste
Maintain a healthy mix of “greens” (nitrogen-rich like food scraps) and “browns” (carbon-rich materials like leaves and cardboard)
Turn and aerate the compost regularly
A well-balanced compost system can break down biodegradable phone cases within a year (or 160 days with our cases!).
3. Use a Municipal or Industrial Compost Facility
If you don’t compost at home, check for local composting services. Many cities and towns operate municipal composting programs that process compostable plastics and biopolymers in high-heat environments, accelerating the breakdown process.
Contact your local waste or recycling authority to confirm they accept items like phone cases made from PBAT/PLA.
4. Avoid Landfills
Biodegradable phone cases should never be thrown in the trash. In landfills, the lack of oxygen prevents proper decomposition, often causing biodegradable materials to break down anaerobically—producing methane gas and other harmful byproducts.
5. Check for Bioplastic Recycling Programs
In some areas, special recycling programs accept bioplastics and compostable materials. While less common than composting, this can be a responsible alternative if available in your region.
Care Instructions
To extend the life of your biodegradable case before disposal:
Wipe clean with a damp cotton or microfiber cloth
Add a small amount of dish soap if needed
Avoid soaking or using harsh cleaning products
Proper care helps reduce wear and ensures the case lasts as long as possible before composting.
Why Choose Simply Herbs Cases?
As part of a holistic and nature-aligned lifestyle, Simply Herbs Cases are designed to minimize waste without compromising style or functionality.
They are:
Made from plant-based, compostable materials
Capable of biodegrading in as little as 160 days
Wireless charging compatible
Offered with eco-friendly gift packaging options
Whether you’re a seller looking to support the plastic-free movement or a customer seeking sustainable daily tools, these cases are a meaningful, planet-positive choice.
Closing the Loop
Choosing biodegradable products is only the first step—responsible disposal completes the cycle. By composting or recycling biodegradable phone cases appropriately, we reduce plastic waste, cut down on pollution, and help restore natural balance to the environment.
In herbalism, we often say that healing starts in the soil. By returning our tools, both herbal and digital, back to the earth in a clean and thoughtful way, we help nurture the same land that sustains us.
Whether you’re deep in the woods harvesting yarrow or at your desk planning your next market day, it’s possible to live in balance with technology and nature. Disposing of your phone case properly is just one small step—but many small steps create lasting change.
With roots and gratitude,
For more tips on eco-friendly living or to explore our collection of biodegradable accessories, visit SimplyHerbs.US
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