Frequently Asked Questions
Order & Shipping
Yes you can track your order here.
Yes, we do ship internationally. The shipping fee may vary depending on your location. Shipping prices are calculated at check out.
Please make sure you tracked your order from your order confirmation emails. If you are still unable to find your order, please get in touch with us as soon as possible at hello@zerowasteco.eco
If, for whatever reason you need to cancel or change your order you can potentially do so. As long as you haven't received an order shipped email we should be able to work something out. Email us as soon as possible with your order reference and the changes you would like to make at hello@zerowasteco.eco
There are multiple ways you can pay for your order; Visa, MasterCard, AfterPay, PayPal and Google Wallet. You will see all the available options for you at checkout.
We are based in Adelaide, Australia and we ship predominantly from Australia depending on your requirements.
We source and can ship items from all over the world, This can be from Europe, China, United States, or Australia.
Exchange & Return
Please check our return/refund/exchange policy here.
You can exchange an item with a higher-price item or the same item with a different size. See detailed policy here.
If your items have been damaged in transit, please contact us immediately by emailing hello@zerowasteco.eco or via our contact us page.
Please quote your order number in the subject. We will refund/return or replace
your item in accordance with our Refund Policy.
General
All transactions are completed through our secure site using SSL. As a rule of thumb, for best practice on any site, make sure that you can see the padlock next to the
address bar in your browser before entering any personal information.
We also use McAfee Secure to ensure that our site is safe for our customers and we also use PayPal buyer protection.
We want to make sure that you can shop with confidence when shopping with us!
You can read more about our buyer protection and our Privacy Policy.
You can make a purchase in multiple different currencies such as USD, GBP, EUR, AUD, NZD and more. The currency should display by default to the country that you are shopping from. If not there is a currency selector in the top right corner near the bag icon where you can change the currency - look for the country flag!
Any problems, please email us at hello@zerowasteco.eco
Eco-friendliness refers to actions and behaviors that are environmentally sustainable, with minimal impact on the natural world. It's important because the planet faces significant environmental challenges, including climate change, pollution, and the depletion of natural resources. By embracing eco-friendliness, individuals and organizations can help mitigate these problems and promote a healthier, more sustainable planet for future generations.
Compostable products
All of our compostable Zero Pack mailers, bubble wrap, labels, ZeroWrap, ZeroTape and other packaging solutions are all certified according to any or all of the following:
ABA Home and Industrial compostable.
EN13432 for European certification
ASTM D6400 - American certification
This means that every single one of our 100% compostable products are exactly that, 100% compostable, either home compostable or industrial compostable.
This means that they will break down completely in the environment without leaving a trace and that includes not leaving behind any nasty chemicals or toxins.
Our compostable mailers, bubble wrap, packaging and ZeroWrap are all made from corn starch (corn that is no longer fit for consumption), PLA (Polylactide, which is made from waste corn too and other plants) and PBAT (Polybutyrate Adipate Terephthalate). Even the ink is made from non-toxic materials which means that they are even safe to go in a worm farm! Our compostable tape is a world first and is made from predominantly sustainable raw materials: The carrier is made from renewable or recyclable material and coated with a natural rubber adhesive, by monta in Germany. The product core for all current and future Greenline tape is made from recycled paper, the shipping carton and label are FSC certified and therefore 100% sustainable. Our compostable labels are made from paper and the adhesive is made from a high percentage of renewable materials and are certified EN13432 compostable. All these products have been tested and are certified 100% compostable.
If you don't have your own compost setup at home, consider checking out starting your own. Australian residents can even save up to 80% through their local council. Check it out the compost revolution. If that's not an option for you, you can start one through your workplace by teaming up with PlanetArk or at home with your local neighbourhood with ShareWaste. Otherwise, find a local compost facility with PlanetArk
If you’re composting at home, it’s a good idea to break the mailers apart or cut them up. This just helps with the composting process and makes them into bite size pieces for the worms! Make sure you remove any labels, tape, etc from the mailer before composting.
The compostable material looks and feels just like plastic! In fact, it's even a little bit stretchy as well and can also be written on with markers (just make sure they're non-toxic!). They have all the benefits of plastic with none of the nasty stuff!
They're tough, durable, waterproof, writeable and tear-resistant.
Our home compostable products will break down in a home compost environment in 90-180 days and if it is industrially compostable then it will break down within 90 days in a commercial compost environment.
They have to meet these requirements to be certified.
Our compostable products should always be kept in a cool dry place. The optimum temperature for them is around 20-25 degrees Celsius. Humidity and moisture will speed up the composting process so make sure to keep them cool and dry in storage.
When looked after they will last around 12-18 months.
But don't worry, they won't start to disintegrate in your hands! Just like us, they start to get wrinkly when they're old!!
Eco-Tips and Tricks
You can reduce your carbon footprint by:
Reducing energy use: Turn off lights and electronics when not in use, use energy-efficient appliances, and adjust your thermostat to conserve energy.
Driving less: Walk, bike, carpool, or use public transportation instead of driving alone.
Eating a plant-based diet: Reduce your consumption of meat, dairy, and other animal products, as the production of these foods requires a significant amount of energy and resources.
Conserving water: Fix leaks, take shorter showers, and use water-efficient appliances.
Recycling: Recycle paper, plastic, glass, and metal to reduce the amount of waste that ends up in landfills.
Supporting renewable energy: Invest in renewable energy sources, such as solar or wind power, or purchase renewable energy certificates.
Supporting eco-friendly products: Choose products that are made from sustainable materials, have a low carbon footprint, and are made in an environmentally responsible way.
By making these changes, you can significantly reduce your carbon footprint and contribute to a more sustainable future for the planet.
There are many ways you can live a more sustainable lifestyle, including:
Reduce energy use: Turn off lights and electronics when not in use, use energy-efficient appliances, and adjust your thermostat to conserve energy.
Reduce water use: Fix leaks, take shorter showers, and use water-efficient appliances.
Eat a plant-based diet: Reduce your consumption of meat, dairy, and other animal products, as the production of these foods requires a significant amount of energy and resources.
Use public transportation, bike or walk instead of driving alone.
Support renewable energy: Invest in renewable energy sources, such as solar or wind power, or purchase renewable energy certificates.
Buy locally sourced products: Supporting local farmers and small businesses reduces the carbon footprint associated with shipping products from far away.
Reduce waste: Recycle, compost, and choose products with minimal packaging.
Support sustainable products: Choose products that are made from sustainable materials, have a low carbon footprint, and are made in an environmentally responsible way.
Conserve resources: Use reusable products and repair items instead of throwing them away.
By incorporating these practices into your daily life, you can reduce your impact on the environment and support a more sustainable way of living.
You can reduce your plastic consumption by:
Bringing your own reusable bags when shopping instead of using single-use plastic bags.
Using a refillable water bottle instead of buying single-use plastic water bottles.
Using reusable food containers instead of plastic wrap or single-use plastic containers.
Choosing products with minimal packaging or packaging that is recyclable.
Choosing products made from alternative materials, such as glass, metal, or bamboo, instead of plastic.
Avoiding single-use plastic items, such as straws, cutlery, and coffee stirrers.
Recycling plastic products properly.
Supporting businesses and brands that prioritize reducing plastic use and promoting sustainability.
By making these changes, you can significantly reduce your plastic consumption and contribute to a more sustainable future for the planet.
There are many ways to get involved in environmental activism and advocacy, including:
Joining local environmental groups: Look for environmental groups in your community and join their efforts to promote sustainability and protect the environment.
Participating in local events: Attend environmental events such as beach cleanups, tree plantings, and protests to raise awareness and advocate for change.
Writing to your elected officials: Reach out to your local and national representatives to share your concerns and advocate for policies that prioritize the environment.
Using social media: Share information on environmental issues and promote sustainable practices on social media platforms to raise awareness and inspire others to take action.
Supporting environmentally responsible businesses: Choose to support businesses that prioritize sustainability, and share your support with others to encourage them to do the same.
Volunteering: Find volunteer opportunities with environmental organizations and initiatives, such as nature conservation projects, park and beach cleanups, and tree planting programs.
By getting involved in environmental activism and advocacy, you can help promote sustainable practices, protect the environment, and encourage others to do the same.
Composting 101
Composting is a process of natural decomposition of organic materials, such as food scraps and yard waste, into a nutrient-rich soil amendment. It works by creating an environment where microorganisms, such as bacteria, fungi, and insects, break down the organic materials into a soil-like substance called humus.
The process of composting requires four essential components: carbon-rich materials, nitrogen-rich materials, water, and air. Carbon-rich materials, such as dried leaves, paper, and wood chips, provide energy to the microorganisms, while nitrogen-rich materials, such as food scraps, grass clippings, and manure, provide protein. Water is necessary to keep the compost moist, and air is needed to ensure proper aeration and allow the microorganisms to breathe.
To begin composting, start by collecting organic materials in a compost bin or pile. Make sure to add a balanced mix of carbon and nitrogen-rich materials and keep the pile moist and aerated. Turn the pile occasionally to ensure proper decomposition and speed up the process. Over time, the materials will break down and turn into nutrient-rich compost that can be used to fertilize plants and gardens.
Composting is an environmentally friendly way to reduce waste, create healthy soil, and promote sustainable gardening practices.
Composting has several benefits, including:
Reducing waste: Composting diverts organic waste from landfills, where it would produce methane, a potent greenhouse gas, and contribute to global warming.
Improving soil quality: Compost provides essential nutrients for plants and improves soil structure, water retention, and aeration.
Reducing the need for chemical fertilizers: Compost is a natural and chemical-free alternative to synthetic fertilizers that can damage the soil and harm the environment.
Promoting sustainable gardening practices: Composting is an environmentally friendly way to support healthy plant growth and reduce the need for pesticides and herbicides.
Saving money: Using compost as a soil amendment reduces the need for costly fertilizers and soil conditioners.
Supporting a circular economy: Composting creates a closed-loop system by recycling organic waste back into the soil, reducing the need for external inputs.
Overall, composting is an effective way to reduce waste, support healthy soil and plant growth, and promote sustainable practices that benefit the environment and the economy.
You can compost a wide range of organic materials, including:
Fruit and vegetable scraps
Coffee grounds and filters
Tea bags
Eggshells
Grass clippings and yard waste
Leaves and twigs
Plant trimmings
Paper products, such as shredded newspaper and cardboard
Wood chips and sawdust
Animal manure (from herbivores only)
However, there are certain materials that should be avoided when composting, including:
Meat, dairy, and oily foods: These materials can attract pests and take longer to decompose, leading to unpleasant odors and unsanitary conditions.
Diseased or insect-infested plants: Composting these materials can spread diseases or pests to healthy plants.
Pet waste: Pet waste can contain harmful pathogens that can survive the composting process and contaminate the soil.
Synthetic materials: Synthetic materials, such as plastic, should not be composted as they do not decompose and can contaminate the soil.
Charcoal ash and coal ash: These materials can contain harmful chemicals that can contaminate the soil and harm plants.
By composting the right materials and avoiding the wrong ones, you can create a nutrient-rich soil amendment that supports healthy plant growth and promotes sustainable practices.
Starting a compost at home is relatively easy and straightforward. Here are the basic steps to get started:
Choose a composting method: There are several composting methods, including indoor composting, outdoor composting, and vermicomposting (using worms). Choose a method that works best for your living situation and the amount of organic waste you produce.
Select a composting bin: Depending on the method you choose, you may need to purchase or build a composting bin. There are many types of composting bins available, from basic DIY options to more advanced commercial models.
Collect organic materials: Start collecting organic materials to compost, including fruit and vegetable scraps, yard waste, and other compostable materials.
Layer the materials: Layer the organic materials in the compost bin, alternating between carbon-rich materials, such as dried leaves or shredded paper, and nitrogen-rich materials, such as food scraps and grass clippings.
Add water and air: Add water to the compost pile to keep it moist, and turn the pile regularly to ensure proper aeration and decomposition.
Wait for the compost to mature: Depending on the composting method and environmental conditions, it may take several weeks to several months for the compost to mature. The compost is ready to use when it is dark, crumbly, and has an earthy smell.
Starting a compost at home is an effective way to reduce waste, support healthy plant growth, and promote sustainable practices. With a little effort and the right materials, you can create a nutrient-rich soil amendment that benefits your garden and the environment.
Maintaining a healthy compost pile is important for ensuring that the organic material breaks down properly and doesn't produce unpleasant odors. Here are some tips for maintaining a healthy compost pile:
Keep the pile moist: Compost needs moisture to break down properly, so make sure the pile stays moist but not waterlogged. If the pile is too dry, it will not break down effectively, while if it's too wet, it can become smelly and attract pests. Aim for a moisture level similar to that of a wrung-out sponge.
Turn the pile regularly: Turning the pile regularly, either with a pitchfork or by rotating the compost bin, will help ensure that all of the materials in the pile break down evenly. This also allows for aeration, which helps the composting process.
Add brown and green materials: For a healthy compost pile, it's important to have a good balance of brown (carbon-rich) and green (nitrogen-rich) materials. This will help ensure the pile breaks down effectively and doesn't produce unpleasant odors. A good rule of thumb is to aim for a ratio of about 3 parts brown to 1 part green.
Avoid adding meat, dairy, and oily foods: These materials can attract pests and take longer to decompose, leading to unpleasant odors and unsanitary conditions.
Consider adding compost activators: Compost activators, such as manure or compost starters, can help speed up the composting process by adding beneficial microorganisms to the pile.
By following these tips, you can maintain a healthy compost pile that breaks down effectively and produces a nutrient-rich soil amendment for your garden.
The time it takes for compost to be ready to use can vary depending on several factors, including the materials used, the size of the compost pile, and the environmental conditions. In general, it can take anywhere from a few months to a year for compost to be fully broken down and ready to use.
A well-maintained compost pile that has a good balance of brown (carbon-rich) and green (nitrogen-rich) materials, is kept moist, and is turned regularly can break down in about 2 to 3 months. However, larger piles or those with more challenging materials, such as woody stems or pine needles, may take longer to break down.
When the compost is ready, it will have a dark, crumbly texture and a pleasant earthy smell. It will no longer be recognizable as the original materials that went into the pile. At this point, the compost can be added to soil as a nutrient-rich soil amendment for plants and gardens.
It's important to note that compost can continue to break down over time, so even if it's not fully ready, it can still be beneficial to add to soil as a soil conditioner.
Compost can be used as a nutrient-rich soil amendment in a variety of ways. Here are some of the ways you can use compost:
Garden soil: Compost can be mixed into garden soil to improve its structure and fertility. It helps to retain moisture and can make soil less compacted, which helps plant roots grow more easily.
Potting soil: Compost can be added to potting soil to improve its water-holding capacity and provide essential nutrients to potted plants.
Lawn care: Compost can be used as a top dressing for lawns, helping to provide the soil with nutrients and promote healthy root growth.
Mulch: Compost can be used as a mulch around plants to help retain moisture in the soil, suppress weeds, and provide nutrients to the plants.
Compost tea: Compost can be steeped in water to create a nutrient-rich liquid that can be used as a foliar spray or soil drench to provide plants with essential nutrients.
Using compost as a soil amendment can help reduce the need for synthetic fertilizers, promote healthy plant growth, and improve the overall health of soil.
Yes, it's possible to compost in an apartment or small space, even if you don't have access to outdoor space. Here are a few options:
Vermicomposting: Vermicomposting is the process of composting with worms. It's a great option for small spaces because it can be done indoors and doesn't require much space. You can purchase a worm bin and start adding your food scraps, paper, and cardboard. The worms will break down the materials and create a nutrient-rich compost that can be used for potted plants or in a small garden.
Bokashi composting: Bokashi composting is another option for composting in small spaces. It uses a special mixture of beneficial microbes to ferment food scraps, which can be done in an airtight container. Once the food scraps have fermented, they can be added to an outdoor compost bin, buried in soil, or used to make compost tea.
Composting at a community garden: If you don't have access to outdoor space, consider joining a community garden. Many community gardens have composting facilities that you can use to compost your food scraps and other organic materials.
Drop-off locations: Some cities and towns have drop-off locations for food scraps and other organic materials. Check with your local waste management agency to see if this is an option in your area.
Composting in a small space may require a bit more effort, but it's a great way to reduce your waste and create nutrient-rich compost for your plants.
Pests can be a common issue in compost piles, but there are several ways to avoid them. Here are some tips:
Add the right balance of materials: Pests are attracted to food scraps, so make sure to add plenty of brown (carbon-rich) materials, such as dried leaves or shredded paper, to your compost pile. This will help create a healthy balance of materials and discourage pests.
Keep the pile moist: Pests are less likely to be attracted to a moist compost pile, so make sure to keep the pile damp but not too wet.
Turn the pile regularly: Turning the compost pile regularly can help discourage pests by breaking up their habitats and exposing them to the elements.
Cover the pile: Covering the compost pile with a tarp or other material can help keep pests out and prevent them from making a home in your compost pile.
Use a closed compost bin: If you're composting indoors or in a small space, using a closed compost bin can help prevent pests from getting in.
Avoid adding meat or dairy products: Meat and dairy products can attract pests and can also slow down the composting process. Avoid adding these items to your compost pile.
By following these tips, you can help keep pests out of your compost pile and create healthy, nutrient-rich compost for your plants.
Composting can be a simple and rewarding process, but there are some common mistakes to avoid that can slow down the process, attract pests, or create a smelly or unhealthy compost pile. Here are some common mistakes to avoid when composting:
Adding too much of one type of material: Composting requires a balance of green (nitrogen-rich) and brown (carbon-rich) materials. Adding too much of one type of material can throw off the balance and slow down the composting process. Aim for a 3:1 ratio of brown to green materials.
Not chopping up materials: Chopping or shredding materials, such as leaves or twigs, can help speed up the composting process by increasing the surface area for microbes to break down the materials.
Adding meat, dairy, or oily foods: Meat, dairy, and oily foods can attract pests and slow down the composting process. Avoid adding these items to your compost pile.
Not turning the pile: Turning the compost pile regularly helps add oxygen and break up clumps, which can speed up the composting process. If the pile is left to sit without turning, it can become compact and smelly.
Not keeping the pile moist: Composting requires moisture to break down materials. If the pile is too dry, it can slow down the composting process, while if it's too wet, it can create a smelly compost pile. Aim for a damp, sponge-like consistency.
Adding diseased or pest-infested plants: If you add diseased or pest-infested plants to your compost pile, the problem can spread and create an unhealthy compost pile. Avoid adding these materials to your compost pile.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can create a healthy, nutrient-rich compost pile that can benefit your garden and the environment.
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