Biodegradable Products Institute (BPI)
Issuing Organization:
Biodegradable Products Institute
Label purpose:
BPI certification aims to promote the use and recovery of biodegradable, compostable products made from organic materials. It provides a clear indication that products, such as food service ware, packaging, and bags, meet stringent standards for compostability in industrial composting facilities, thus supporting waste diversion and sustainability efforts.
Certification Criteria:
Products certified by BPI are required to meet ASTM D6400 or D6868 standards for compostability, which include disintegration, biodegradation, and ecotoxicity tests. This ensures that products will break down in a timely manner in commercial composting facilities without leaving harmful residues.
Geographical Coverage:
Products certified by BPI are required to meet ASTM D6400 or D6868 standards for compostability, which include disintegration, biodegradation, and ecotoxicity tests. This ensures that products will break down in a timely manner in commercial composting facilities without leaving harmful residues.
Target Industries/Segments:
The certification targets a wide range of products, including disposable cutlery, plates, cups, bags, packaging materials, and other products designed for composting after use.
Certification Process:
To obtain BPI certification, a product must undergo rigorous testing by a third-party laboratory to ensure it meets the ASTM standards for compostability. The process involves submitting product samples for testing, a comprehensive review of test results, and if successful, the issuance of a BPI certification mark.
Certificate Validity:
BPI certification is valid for three years, after which companies must reapply to ensure their products continue to meet the current standards for compostability. The reapplication process includes reviewing any changes to the product and possibly additional testing.
Benefits for Consumers/Producers:
For consumers, the BPI certification mark provides assurance that products are compostable and support efforts to reduce landfill waste. For producers, BPI certification enhances product marketability to environmentally conscious consumers and businesses, distinguishing their products in a competitive marketplace.
Sustainability Impact:
BPI certification supports sustainable development by encouraging the use of compostable products, which helps reduce landfill waste, lower greenhouse gas emissions from waste management, and promote soil health through the production of compost. It plays a crucial role in advancing composting infrastructure and organic waste diversion, contributing to a more sustainable and circular economy.
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