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The Ultimate Guide to Compostable Bag and biodegradable plastic bag Certifications: Know Your Eco-Labels
Compostable Bag Certifications
As global demand for sustainable packaging surges, understanding compostable bag certifications has become crucial for environmentally-conscious businesses. This comprehensive guide deciphers the world's leading compostable certifications, helping you make informed decisions and verify authentic eco-friendly products.
**Why Certifications Matter for Compostable Bags**
Not all "biodegradable" bags are equal. Third-party certifications ensure:
• Complete breakdown within specified timelines
• No toxic residue in compost
• Compliance with international standards
• Industrial/home composting compatibility
**Global Compostable Certification Breakdown**
**1. European TUV OK Compost (Industrial)**
- **Standard:** EN 13432
- **Issuer:** TÜV Austria
- **Key Tests:**
≥90% biodegradation within 6 months
≤12 weeks disintegration
Heavy metal limits
- **Logo Significance:** Guarantees industrial composting validity
- **Verify Certificates:** [https://okcert.tuvaustria.com/](https://okcert.tuvaustria.com/)
**2. European DIN CERTCO (Home & Industrial)**
- **Standards:**
• EN 13432 (Industrial)
• NF T51-800 (Home)
- **Issuer:** DIN CERTCO (Germany)
- **Key Distinction:**
"Seedling Logo" indicates both industrial/home compliance
- **Certification Portal:** [https://www.dincertco.de/](https://www.dincertco.de/)
**3. US BPI Certification (ASTM D6400)**
- **Standard:** ASTM D6400
- **Issuer:** Biodegradable Products Institute
- **Market Relevance:**
Mandatory for compostable products in 23 US states
- **Database Check:** [https://products.bpiworld.org/](https://products.bpiworld.org/)
**4. Australian AS 4736 & AS 5810**
- **Dual Standards:**
• AS 4736 (Industrial)
• AS 5810 (Home)
- **Oversight:** Australasian Bioplastics Association
- **Certification Guide:** [https://bioplastics.org.au/](https://bioplastics.org.au/)
Certification Comparison Chart
Certification | Region | Compost Type | Verification Link |
---|---|---|---|
TUV OK Compost | EU/Global | Industrial | tuvaustria.com/okcert |
DIN CERTCO | EU/Global | Both | dincertco.de |
BPI | North America | Industrial | bpiworld.org/products |
AS 4736/5810 | Australasia | Both | bioplastics.org.au |
**How to Use Certifications in Marketing**
- Display logos prominently on product pages
- Link certification badges to official registry listings
- Educate customers about regional standards compliance
**FAQs About Compostable Certifications**
**Q: Can home-compostable bags go in industrial facilities?**
A: Yes, but industrial-only bags shouldn't be home composted.
**Q: How often are certifications renewed?**
A: Annual audits with random product testing.
**Q: Do certified bags decompose in landfills?**
A: No – they require composting conditions.
**Conclusion: Certifications = Trust in Sustainability**
Navigating compostable certifications empowers your business to source truly sustainable packaging. Always verify certifications through official links and educate customers about proper disposal.
**Need Certified Compostable Bags?** [Contact Us] – We meet all global standards.