OK Compost
Issuing Organization:
TÜV AUSTRIA
Label purpose:
OK Compost certifies that products and packaging can be composted under industrial composting conditions. The label aims to promote the recovery of organic waste and the use of compostable products, contributing to the reduction of waste in landfills and the promotion of composting as a sustainable waste management solution.
Certification Criteria:
Products must comply with the European standard EN 13432 or similar standards, demonstrating that they will biodegrade at a rate comparable to known compostable materials without negatively affecting the composting process. This includes tests for biodegradation, disintegration during composting, absence of harmful substances, and quality of the resulting compost.
Geographical Coverage:
Products must comply with the European standard EN 13432 or similar standards, demonstrating that they will biodegrade at a rate comparable to known compostable materials without negatively affecting the composting process. This includes tests for biodegradation, disintegration during composting, absence of harmful substances, and quality of the resulting compost.
Target Industries/Segments:
The certification is relevant for a wide range of products, including packaging materials, disposable tableware, agricultural films, and any other products that can be composted after use.
Certification Process:
To obtain the OK Compost certification, a product must undergo laboratory testing to verify compliance with compostability standards. The process involves an initial assessment, testing for biodegradability and disintegration, and checks for ecotoxicity. Successful products are awarded the OK Compost mark.
Certificate Validity:
The OK Compost certification is valid for a specific period, after which manufacturers must reapply and demonstrate that their products continue to meet the certification criteria. This ensures that certified products remain compliant with compostability standards.
Benefits for Consumers/Producers:
For consumers, the OK Compost label provides assurance that a product is compostable in industrial facilities, supporting environmentally responsible disposal practices. For producers, the certification enhances product marketability by demonstrating a commitment to sustainability and reducing environmental impact.
Sustainability Impact:
By promoting the use of compostable products and packaging, the OK Compost certification contributes to the reduction of waste in landfills, encourages recycling of organic waste, and supports the production of high-quality compost. This helps to close the loop of organic waste, returning nutrients to the soil and promoting sustainable agriculture practices.