Can I Compost Glossy Photos?
Glossy photos are not compostable due to the non-biodegradable plastic or resin coating used in their production.

Sourced & Cited
Photos, especially glossy ones, are a common household item that many people wonder about composting. Let's take a closer look at whether or not these can be added to your compost pile and the reasons behind the answer. We'll discuss why their glossy coating poses a problem and suggest alternatives for responsible disposal.
Compost Classification
Unsuitable for Composting: This material should not be composted due to potential safety hazards or its inability to decompose properly. As such, the classification of brown (carbon-rich) or green (nitrogen-rich) does not apply.
🏷️ Tags
Important characteristics to know about this item:
Breaks Down Slowly Pest Attraction Risk Avoid if Treated/Coated May Contain Synthetics
⚠️ Potential Risks
- The glossy coating is non-biodegradable and will persist in the compost, polluting it.
- It may attract pests or create an unpleasant aesthetic in your compost.
- The non-biodegradable nature of the coating prevents the photo from completely breaking down.
💡 Best Practices
- Do not add glossy photos to your compost pile.
- Dispose of glossy photos responsibly, perhaps by recycling if your local program accepts them or through a waste disposal system.
- Consider using digital photos to reduce waste and avoid this issue entirely.