Biodegradable and Compostable

Definition and Misuse

Biodegradable and compostable are often used interchangeably to describe the breakdown of organic materials in specific conditions. However, the misuse of “biodegradable” in marketing has led to confusion among consumers. To address this, BioBag predominantly employs the term “compostable” for our certified products.

Biodegradability

Biodegradability refers to a material’s ability to undergo biological degradation, producing CO₂, H₂O, methane, biomass, and mineral salts. Microorganisms, primarily fed by organic waste, drive this process. However, the term lacks specificity, as all materials eventually biodegrade, emphasizing the need to specify the intended environment for biodegradation.

Compostability

Composting involves microbial digestion to break down organic waste into compost, beneficial for soil enhancement and fertilization. Optimal heat, water, and oxygen levels are necessary for this process. In piles of organic waste, myriad microbes consume materials, transforming them into compost. Full compostability requires adherence to stringent standards such as European Norm EN 13432 and US Standard ASTM D6400, ensuring complete decomposition without harmful residues.

International Standards

Apart from European Standard EN 13432, various countries have their own norms, including US Standard ASTM D6400 and Australian norm AS4736. These standards serve as benchmarks for manufacturers, regulatory bodies, composting facilities, certification agencies, and consumers.

Criteria for Compostable Materials

According to European Standard EN 13432, compostable materials must exhibit:

• Biodegradability of at least 90%, converting into CO₂ within six months.
• Disintegration, resulting in less than 10% residue.
• Compatibility with the composting process.
• Low levels of heavy metals, without compromising compost quality.

Conclusion

Biodegradability alone does not guarantee compostability; materials must also disintegrate within a single composting cycle. Conversely, materials that fragment into non-biodegradable micro-pieces over one cycle are not considered compostable. EN 13432 represents a harmonized technical standard, aligning with European Directive 94/62/EC on packaging and packaging waste.