A Tea Lover’s Guide to Composting: How Our Packaging Protects the Planet
Every morning, as I scoop fragrant tea leaves into my teapot, I think about the journey they’ve taken. From misty mountaintops in Sri Lanka to sun-drenched fields in Assam, each leaf tells the story of the care of its farmer, the richness of the soil, and the story of a land nurtured by generations. But there’s another part of this story that often goes unnoticed—the packaging that brings these teas to you.
At Route 636 Tea Co., we believe that sustainability doesn’t stop at sourcing ethical, single origin teas. It extends to every choice we make—including how we package our teas. That’s why we use compostable packaging, ensuring that every aspect of your tea experience is kind to both people and the planet.
Why Compostable?
When we established Route 636, we made a commitment to zero waste. Traditional tea packaging often includes plastic-lined pouches, foil, and synthetic materials that can take decades—or even centuries—to break down. Even many recyclable packages end up in landfills due to contamination or lack of local recycling facilities. Personally, we needed a better solution. And, so, here we are.
Our compostable packaging is made from plant-based materials that break down naturally, returning nutrients to the soil instead of lingering in landfills. Choosing compostable packaging aligns with our commitment to zero waste, resource conservation, and sustainable farming—because what nourishes the earth nourishes us all.
How to Compost Our Packaging
One of the most common questions we get is: How do I compost my tea packaging? The process is simple, and there are two main ways:
- Home Composting: If you have a backyard compost bin or pile, simply cut the packaging into smaller pieces and mix it into your compost. Within a few months, it will decompose, enriching your soil with organic matter. Full disclosure: our packaging requires stable temperature conditions to break down quickly. Unstable temperatures may result in slower decomposition.
- Industrial Composting: If home composting isn’t an option, check with your local composting facility. Many commercial compost sites accept plant-based packaging and process it under optimal conditions for quicker breakdown.
Remember that both the bag and sticker are compostable!
When to Repack Your Tea
While compostable packaging is a fantastic eco-friendly option, it does have a shorter shelf life than plastic-lined alternatives. To ensure your tea stays fresh, we recommend transferring it to an airtight container, such as a glass jar or metal tin, after a few months; especially if you live in a humid climate. This will protect the delicate flavors and aromas while allowing you to compost the original bag.
A Simple Action, A Big Impact
Every choice we make—whether it’s the tea we drink or the way we dispose of its packaging—contributes to a larger story. This Earth Day, we invite you to be part of this movement toward a more sustainable future. When you sip your tea, know that you’re not just nourishing yourself—you’re giving back to the Earth that made it possible.
Have questions about composting or tea storage? Drop a comment below or share your own sustainable tea practices.
Let’s create a ripple effect of positive change, one cup at a time.