When evaluating the environmental impact of the products a business offers, it’s essential to consider the production stage, the use stage, and the end-of-life stage. Following our discussion on urgent changes for product adaptation, let’s take a look at the various commonly accepted compostability certifications in the EU and US.
While compostable packaging certifications aren’t universally mandatory, the most significant benefit of obtaining certification is having an authoritative body back your claims of compostability. This is crucial for avoiding accusations of greenwashing.
Common Standards
The most common standards are EN 13432 (EU) and ASTM D6400 (US). Certifications from TÜV Austria are commonly accepted in the EU/UK markets, while BPI certification is preferred in the US market.
OK Compost Home certification from TÜV Austria is the most recognized certification for home compostable plastics.
Below is a chart listing the compostability certifications:
| Certification Name | Region | Standard | Key Criteria |
|---|---|---|---|
| OK Compost Industrial | Global | EN 13432 | Suitable for industrial composting Biodegradation: ≥ 90% within 6 months No toxic residues |
| OK Compost Home | Global | TÜV Austria standard* | Suitable for home composting Biodegradation: ≥ 90% within 12 months Disintegration: ≤ 10% of the original dry weight remaining after 6 months No toxic residues |
| OK Biodegradable Soil | Global | TÜV Austria standard | Biodegradation within 24 months No toxic residues |
| OK Biodegradable Water | Global | TÜV Austria standard | Biodegradation within 56 days in freshwater No toxic residues |
| OK Biodegradable Marine | Global | TÜV Austria standard | Biodegradation within 60 days in marine environments No toxic residues |
| EN 13432 | EU, UK | EN 13432 | Specific to packaging materials Biodegradation: ≥ 90% within 6 months Disintegration: ≥ 90% within 12 weeks No toxic residues Suitable for industrial composting |
| EN 14995 | EU, UK | EN 14995 | Similar to EN 13432, but applies to all plastics Biodegradation: ≥ 90% within 6 months No toxic residues Suitable for industrial composting |
| ASTM D6400 | US | ASTM D6400 | Biodegradation: ≥ 60% within 180 days Disintegration: ≥ 90% within 84 days No toxic residues Suitable for industrial composting |
| BPI Certification | US | ASTM D6400 or D6868 | Third-party verification Compliance with ASTM standards Suitable for industrial composting |
In conclusion, certifications not only ensure compliance with regulatory standards but also build trust with consumers who are increasingly conscious of environmental issues. By adhering to these recognized standards, companies can confidently market their products as eco-friendly, knowing they are backed by scientific verification.
For more detailed information on these certifications, you can visit the official websites of TÜV Austria, BPI, and European Bioplastics.