The term “Biodegradable” requires no certification; thus, some manufacturers are labeling their product with the term Biodegradable, to make their product sound eco-friendly and sustainable, when the product is substandard. This loose labeling is known as “Greenwashing” Environmental claims are made, but the claims do not match consumer expectations. There are US and European standards which a product must be evaluated for and upheld to. ASTM guidelines have been established to determine if a product can be labeled “Industrially Compostable” or “Commercially Compostable.” Standard D6400 indicates that product breakdown occurs within 180 days to at least 90% of its original material. This remaining material should be indistinguishable from the finished compost and can pass through a 2 mm screen and the final product is ensured to be non-toxic to the environment nor contain harmful levels of heavy metals. (The European guideline, EN13432, is equivalent to US Standard D6400).
It is important to note that some Biodegradable products (oxo degradable plastics) may leave residues (i.e., microplastics), which may take decades to disappear, whereas ‘Certified Compostable’ materials do not. This certification and truthful labeling helps to ensure truly eco-friendly and sustainable products will be utilized in the industry in ways the buyer originally intended.
