Question: Is there a requirement for DOE sites to purchase biodegradable dishware?
Response: No, however, biobased products tend to be more biodegradable than petroleum-based products. To ensure a product will decompose in a composting facility, purchase either Biodegradable Products Institute or Compost Manufacturing Alliance certified products.
Question: If the take-out dishware is certified compostable, will it decompose when we send it to the landfill?
Response: No. Biodegradability has as much to do with the location (landfill or compost pile) as the type of material the product is made of. If your site has a compost pile or service, it could reduce disposal costs by breaking down the dishware into compost. Sending biodegradable dishware to the landfill, would neither reduce cost nor biodegrade.
Composting on site can include the traditional grounds and cafeteria debris or it can be a composter specifically designed for cafeterias. If composting on site is not a possibility, you might consider using/helping establish a regional composting facility.