Waste Management and Bioplastics Treatment

European Bioplastics is the representative body of the European bioplastics industry. The association comprises companies along the whole value chain of bioplastics from the agricultural feedstock, chemical, and plastics industries, as well as industrial users and recycling companies. 

Founded in 1993 as IBAW (interest group biodegradable plastic materials), in 2007 the association represented the interests of 75 member companies. Between 2004 and 2007 the number of members more than doubled. The goals of the association are to shape the political, business, and public landscape for the bioplastics industry. 

It is recommended that commercial users or retailers of compostable bioplastic products ask distributors about their product certifications and demand the certification numbers. Even if composting of the product is not intended, certification guarantees high product safety. Certification, moreover, distinguishes between bioplastic and conventional plastic and offers marketing and communication opportunities. 

The certification program for compostable plastic products has been set up by experts responsible for waste-management recycHng and compost quahty 

BS EN (2003) 14046 2003. Packaging. Evaluation of the ultimate aerobic biodegradability and disintegration of packaging materials under controlled composting conditions. Method by analysis of released carbon dioxide. 

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