The main difference lies in the conditions required for the composting process and the environments where the materials can break down effectively.
Home
Industrial
Temperature
Breaks down at lower and less steady temps.
Higher and more controlled temperatures.
Environment
Suitable for backyard piles or tumblers.
Specialized facilities with advanced technology that regulate temperature, moisture, and aeration.
Timeline
Takes longer, typically 6-12 months, depending on temp, moisture, airflow. Testing timeline for home certification is 26 weeks for disintegration and 12 months for biodegradation. An item must pass both to become home certified.
Typically breaks down within a few weeks to months. To become industrially certified an item must pass disintegration testing within 12 weeks, and biodegradation testing within 6 months. An item must pass both to become industrial certified.
Materials
Kitchen scraps, yard waste, fiber products, some waste and storage bags.
Can handle a wider range of materials, including bioplastics and compostable packaging.