Compostability of Sulapac material
One way to recycle biodegradable materials is through organic recycling, which includes industrial composting and anaerobic digestion. Industrial composting is the current recycling method for Sulapac®.
Organic recycling is rapidly increasing in volume, but the regulation is not keeping up with the change. Although the infrastructure exists worldwide, processes related to organic recycling are not standardized. In order to provide some clarity on the topic and support our clients with the communication of the compostability claim, we have gathered this brief guide on compostability.
According to EU legislation (Directive 94/62/EC) industrial composting and anaerobic digestion are considered a specific form of material recycling. Requirements for the compostability of packaging and packaging materials are specified in The European Standard EN 13432. The Seedling certificate is an example of an international certificate that complies with the standard and can be used as an independent proof of the industrial compostability of a product. However, Seedling or similar certificate is not obliged by any legislative authority in Europe.
Compared to many other recycling methods, the technology for industrial composting is widely available in many countries. By 2023 separate biowaste collection is set to be mandatory in the EU. Biodegradation under controlled conditions fits into a circular economy through the idea of closing the biological cycle. The organic component is recycled in a way that mimics nature. A major part of the material is turned into CO2 or CH4, and water, and the remaining mineral component, including nutrients, is recycled back to compost or digest.
Leaves no trace behind
A jar made of BPI certified Sulapac Premium material disintegrates in 12 weeks in an industrial compost.
