The EN 13432 compostable standard is a key European benchmark for packaging recoverable through composting and biodegradation. It sets strict criteria ensuring packaging materials safely and rapidly degrade under industrial composting conditions.
Recognized by regulators and industry, EN 13432 prevents misleading environmental claims and promotes circular economy practices. Understanding this standard helps manufacturers and consumers verify true compostability and environmental compliance.
1. What Is EN 13432? Definition and Core Features
The EN 13432 standard is a European Committee for Standardization (CEN) specification that defines requirements for packaging recoverable through composting and biodegradation under industrial aerobic conditions.
Introduced to harmonize compostability claims within the EU, it requires packaging to biodegrade at least 90% into carbon dioxide, water, and biomass within 90 days without leaving toxic residues. The standard also mandates physical disintegration, absence of heavy metals, and ecotoxicity tests to ensure final compost quality.
2. Clarifying Common Confusions
Confusion often arises between biodegradable, compostable, and EN 13432-certified packaging. Not all biodegradable materials meet these strict industrial criteria.
For example, some plastics may degrade slowly in natural environments but fail EN 13432’s rapid disintegration requirements. Certification by TÜV Austria under the OK Compost scheme provides verified assurance, significantly reducing greenwashing risks.
3. EN 13432 Testing and Certification Process
Packaging materials seeking certification must pass four rigorous tests:
- Biodegradability: ≥90% conversion to CO₂ within 90 days.
- Disintegration: No visible fragments larger than 2 mm after 12 weeks.
- Ecotoxicity: No negative effects on plant growth or soil organisms.
- Heavy Metals: Concentrations must remain below strict environmental limits.
4. Comparison of Global Compostability Standards
| Feature | EN 13432 (EU) | ASTM D6400 (USA) | OK Compost (Global) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Authority | CEN | ASTM International | TÜV Austria |
| Environment | Industrial (58 °C) | Industrial (58 °C) | Industrial (58 °C) |
| Degradation | ≤ 90 days | ≤ 180 days | ≤ 12 weeks (Disintegration) |
| Heavy Metals | Required | Required | Required |
| Certifiers | TÜV Austria, Din Certco | BPI, TÜV Austria | TÜV Austria |
Practical Recommendations for Stakeholders
For Manufacturers: Align with Certification
Develop packaging using materials that meet EN 13432 criteria and engage accredited bodies like TÜV Austria. Clear labeling is essential to communicate verified compostability and maintain market access under evolving EU policies.
For Consumers: Choose and Dispose Correctly
Look for the OK Compost Industrial or EN 13432 labels. To ensure proper degradation, these items must be disposed of in industrial composting streams rather than home compost bins or standard recycling.
For Policymakers: Infrastructure Investment
Incorporate EN 13432 into sustainability frameworks and invest in the industrial composting facilities necessary to turn certified packaging back into nutrient-rich soil.
The EN 13432 standard is essential for advancing sustainable packaging globally.
For detailed certification info, visit the CEN Website or TÜV Austria’s OK Compost program.
