A landmark study from Wageningen University (Netherlands) found that compostable PLA-based (understand PLA and biobased context ) capsules achieved a 100% Material Circularity Indicator (MCI) when industrially composted, outperforming aluminium and plastic (WUR Study).
In Ireland, compostable pods certified OK Biobased can also be disposed of directly in the organic food bin, making them a practical fit for hotel operations.
Key advantages of compostable capsules:
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Certified safe (EN 13432).
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Eliminate aluminium and plastic waste.
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Streamlined for food waste collection.
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Enhance compliance with Ireland’s Circular Economy Act 2022.
Policy & Environmental Context in Ireland and the EU
The EPA recommends separate collection systems for capsules or widespread adoption of compostable-only solutions. At EU level, the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) explicitly recognises compostables as key to improving biowaste capture (European Bioplastics).
By adopting compostable capsules now, hotels can get ahead of regulatory change, reduce costs, and align with both Irish and EU climate commitments.
How Compostable Capsules Fit Into Hotel Operations
The beauty of compostable capsules is operational simplicity:
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Machine Compatibility: Aromatico fits in existing Nespresso OriginalLine no investment in new hardware.
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Waste Collection: Guests can dispose of pods in bins labelled for food/organic waste.
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Housekeeping Integration: Housekeeping staff can collect pods in compost bins alongside food waste.
Table: Hotel Benefits at a Glance
| Operational Area | Traditional Pods | Compostable Pods |
|---|---|---|
| Machine Setup | Aluminium/plastic pods only | Nespresso-compatible & Diva capsules |
| Waste Handling | Landfill/incineration | Organic bin/composting |
| Guest Perception | Growing negative | Positive, visible sustainability |
| Staff Training | Waste confusion | Simple food bin instructions |
Guest Perception & Branding Benefits
Guests notice the details. Research from Bord Bia (Origin Green programme) shows Irish consumers increasingly choose hospitality venues that show visible sustainability commitments (Bord Bia Origin Green).
By providing compostable capsules, hotels:
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Enhance their sustainability credentials.
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Align with guests’ values.
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Differentiate from competitors still using aluminium or plastic pods.
Choose Coffee That’s Good for You and the Planet
All Fzin compostable coffee capsules are manufactured by Mokador in Italy, a roaster powered mainly by renewable energy and certified under ISO 14001 environmental standards (Mokador Sustainability).
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Aromatico Home Compostable Capsules: OK Biobased 4-star certified, disposable in the organic bin, filled with the award-winning Diva Sophia blend.
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Diva Sophia & Diva Marylin Capsules: Designed for the Diva Espresso machine. Diva Sophia is award-winning: IIAC Gold 2024, Platinum 2025.
These products are brought to the Irish market exclusively by Fzin Coffee, offering hotels a practical, sustainable, and premium solution for in-room coffee.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do compostable capsules work with existing hotel machines?
Yes. Aromatico capsules for example are Nespresso-compatible, No new hardware required. Diva capsules are compatible with the Diva Espresso Coffee machine.
Are compostable capsules safe for the environment?
Yes. Certified EN 13432 and OK Biobased, they leave no toxic residues.
How do I explain disposal to guests?
Label bins clearly as “food and compostable waste.” Most guests are familiar with organic bin systems.
Is the coffee as good as traditional pods?
Yes. Aromatico uses the award-winning Diva Sophia blend, and Diva Sophia capsules have been recognised internationally for taste.
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