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Aligning with labelling and certification requirements
Labelling and certifications considerations
When it comes to advanced materials, labelling companies such as TÜV and DIN are paving the way for a more circular economy by determining which category a product belongs to depending on its specific polymer blend and the intended use of the application. This ensures that a product is properly categorised depending on the end-user experience it provides, thereby preventing confusion and streamlining the end-of-life product journey.
OK bio-based certification breakdown
To be OK biobased certified, the product must demonstrate at least 20% biobased carbon content and at least 30% total carbon content. The product is certified as one-star, two-star, three-star or four-star biobased, depending on the percentage of renewable raw materials.
Products that are at least partially made from bioplastics or materials of natural origins can be submitted for the certification programme. These products can be raw materials, additives or finished products. Fuels are not eligible for OK biobased certification.
OK compostable certification breakdown
[No text in field]The OK compost HOME label requires that products meet specific technical requirements to guarantee its materials will biodegrade in a home garden compost. Any material used in home compostable packaging, including the adhesives and printing ink, will decompose into soil. Products that solely receive the OK compost INDUSTRIAL certification can only biodegrade within industrial composting facilities at temperatures between 55 and 60℃.
Products that receive OK compost HOME certification are also able to biodegrade at lower temperatures, so a person can add them to a home garden or compost bin. Home compostable packaging means that any component or material used in the packaging including the printing ink, and the adhesives decompose into organic soil.
OK biodegradable certification breakdown
During biodegradation, microorganisms break down materials by consuming and converting the matter. The specific type of microorganisms involved in biodegradation is related to the environment’s temperature, moisture, pH and other factors. TÜV Austria has developed certification and labeling that indicates the environments in which a product will biodegrade. These environments include marine, soil and water.
The three primary certifications (MARINE, SOIL and WATER) differ based on the environment in which a product is able to biodegrade—marine waters, soil and freshwater (such as lakes and rivers) respectively. Each environment has different microorganisms, temperatures and other elements that will dictate what types of products are able to break down in it. An important note: If a product receives the OK biodegradable WATER certification, it does not mean it automatically qualifies as OK biodegradable MARINE.