In our eco-conscious world, the term “compostable” has become a badge of honor for products. But what does it take to earn this badge? Let’s delve into the rigorous process of obtaining a compostable certification.
Bodies for Compostable Certification
BPI (Biodegradable Products Institute)
An esteemed North American institution, BPI’s certification is a testament to a product’s compostability in industrial facilities.
TÜV AUSTRIA
This European entity offers two certifications – OK compost INDUSTRIAL and OK compost HOME. The former is for industrial composting, while the latter ensures products can be composted at home.
ABA (Australasian Bioplastics Association):
ABA’s Seedling logo and Home Compostable logo are recognized throughout Australia and New Zealand, indicating compliance with specific standards.
The Testing Process of Compostable Certification in Detail
Chemical Analysis
This initial step involves a detailed disclosure of all constituents in the product, ensuring adherence to the safe thresholds for heavy metals and other potential contaminants. It is a guarantee that the product is free from harmful substances that could leach into the compost.
Biodegradation
This measures the material’s ability to be consumed by microorganisms. The primary focus is on the organic carbon in the material. The test ensures that at least 90% of the organic material is converted into CO2 within a stipulated time, typically six months. This ensures that the product won’t linger in the environment but will instead return to nature swiftly.
Disintegration
This is a crucial test to ensure that the product not only breaks down chemically but also physically. After a set period, usually three months of composting, the product is sieved. To pass, no more than 10% of the original mass should remain as residue. This ensures that the compost remains free from large, undecomposed fragments of the product.
Ecotoxicity
This test is vital for ensuring the safety of the resulting compost. It examines the effect of the composted product on plant growth. The primary concern is to ensure that the compost, which might be used to nurture plants, doesn’t harm them. This test ensures that the compostable product doesn’t introduce any toxins into the compost that could harm plant life.
Compost Quality
Beyond the product itself, the resulting compost’s quality is also assessed. This includes tests for heavy metals, fluorine, ash, and other potential contaminants. The goal is to ensure that the compost is of high quality and safe for use in various applications.
Thickness and Grammage Measurements
Especially for packaging materials, the thickness and grammage are measured to ensure consistency and quality across batches. This also helps in determining the product’s suitability for specific applications.
The Verification Process of Compostable Certification
Once testing is complete, the next step is verification. This involves:
Submission of Verification Samples
Applicants provide physical samples for documentation, which are then analyzed.
Submission of Test Reports
The chosen lab sends the test results directly to the certifying body.
Technical Review
A thorough check ensures the product meets all standards.
The Role of Independent Laboratories
All these tests are conducted by independent, BPI, or TÜV AUSTRIA-approved laboratories. These labs are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and are regularly audited to ensure the accuracy and reliability of their tests.
Compostable Certification Completion
Once a product passes all these tests, it is eligible for the compostable certification. This certification is a badge of honor, a testament to the product’s eco-friendliness, and a promise of a sustainable future. But the journey doesn’t end there. Regular checks and audits ensure that the product continues to meet the stringent standards set by the certifying bodies.
Conclusion
Earning the compostable badge is no small feat. It’s a rigorous process that ensures only genuinely compostable products receive certification. For businesses, this certification not only showcases their commitment to the environment but also builds trust with eco-conscious consumers. And for consumers, it offers peace of mind, knowing they’re making an eco-friendly choice.
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