Everything You Need to Know About EN 13432

In the industrial world, several different legislations affect the way we create and dispose of materials; these are usually influenced by the increased desire for sustainability within businesses, as well as governmental responsibility to make each nation a greener place. After all, plastic packaging in the UK accounts for nearly 70% of our plastic waste. One key legislation for industrial production in Europe is the EN 13432 standard, but what is it, and why is it important?

What Is the EN 13432 Standard?

The EN 13432 standard is a European standard that specifies requirements for packaging recovery through composting and biodegradation. It sets out strict criteria for the compostability of packaging materials and products, including their biodegradability, disintegration, and absence of negative effects on composting processes or resulting compost quality. The standard was created in the year 2000 by the National Standards Bodies in many of the European Member States, including the United Kingdom. The UK is primarily certified to EN 13432 by two European certification bodies; Din Certco (Germany) and Vinçotte (Belgium), as stated by the Association for Organics Recycling (2011).

What Are the Requirements to Meet EN 13432 Standards?

In order to meet the EN 13432 standard, packaging materials and products must abide by specific criteria related to biodegradability, disintegration, ecotoxicity, and their impact on composting processes. The key requirements outlined in the standard are:-

• Biodegradability
• Disintegration
• Chemical composition
• Quality of compost
• Testing methods
• Labelling and identification

Biodegradability

The packaging material or product must be biodegradable, meaning it can break down into carbon dioxide, water, inorganic compounds, and biomass under specific conditions. The standard sets requirements for the degree and rate of biodegradation within a defined timeframe. “Within a maximum of 6 months, biodegradation of the test sample must generate an amount of carbon dioxide that is at least 90% as much as the carbon dioxide given off from the control/reference material” (British Plastics Federation).

Disintegration

The packaging material or product should disintegrate into small pieces in compost within a specified timeframe. This ensures that the material breaks down into smaller fragments, facilitating the composting process and minimising the presence of visible residues. After 12 weeks, no more than 10% of these fragments are allowed to be larger than 2 mm (British Plastics Federation).

Chemical Composition

The packaging material must meet specified limits for the presence of certain substances. For example, the concentrations of heavy metals, such as lead, cadmium, mercury, and hexavalent chromium, should not exceed the defined limits. As stated by the British Plastics Federation, these are the defined limits of dry samples which should not be exceeded:-

• Zinc (150mg)
• Copper (50mg)
• Nickel (25mg)
• Cadmium (0.5mg)
• Lead (50mg)
• Mercury (0.5mg)
• Chromium (50mg)
• Molybdenum (1mg)
• Selenium (0.75mg)
• Arsenic (5mg)
• Fluoride (100mg)

Quality of Compost

The compost resulting from the degradation of the packaging material must meet certain quality standards. This includes criteria related to plant growth, germination, and absence of adverse effects. Materials should contribute positively to the quality of the resulting compost by providing organic matter and nutrients for microbial activity.

Testing Methods

Compliance with EN 13432 requires the use of standardised testing methods to evaluate biodegradability, disintegration, and other relevant characteristics of the packaging material in simulated composting conditions. These testing methods are important in aiding manufacturers, regulators and certifying bodies to determine whether the materials meet the standards for compostability.

One example of a testing method is the “Chemical Analysis”, part of the analytical testing process. This is conducted to assess the composition of the material and its degradation products. Techniques such as gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) may be used when assessing material composition.

Labelling and Identification

Packaging materials that meet the requirements of EN 13432 may bear a certification label, such as the seedling logo. The logo indicates to consumers and stakeholders that the packaging is compostable according to the specified standards, assuring them that the packaging materials or products have undergone testing and meet the requirements of the standard.

Benefits of EN 13432 Compliant Materials; for Businesses and the Wider Environment

The EN 13432 standard provides several benefits for businesses and the environment, addressing the impact of packaging waste and contributing to environmentally sustainable practices. To reap these benefits, businesses need to implement a proper waste management infrastructure, such as access to composting facilities.

Some of the key benefits of EN 13432 include the following;

• Environmental sustainability
• Reduced landfill waste
• Support for the circular economy
• Soil enrichment
• Reduced impact on marine life
• Consumer confidence
• Promotion of sustainable practices
• Public awareness and education

Environmental Sustainability

Since EN 13432 promotes the use of packaging materials that are designed to biodegrade and disintegrate in composting conditions, it supports environmental sustainability; reducing the environmental impact of packaging waste. The standard was designed to minimise environmental impact, so sustainability is a key focus throughout each stage.

Reduced Landfill Waste

Compostable packaging materials meeting EN 13432 standards are intended to be recovered through composting rather than ending up in landfills. This helps divert waste from landfills, where traditional plastics may persist for extended periods (which damages the environment).

Support for the Circular Economy

Compostable packaging materials can contribute to the concept of a circular economy by providing a way to return organic materials to the soil through composting. This then supports the recycling of organic matter in a closed-loop system.

Soil Enrichment

The compost generated from the degradation of materials meeting EN 13432 standards can serve as a valuable soil amendment; it enhances soil structure, fertility, and moisture retention, promoting healthier plant growth and ultimately, a greener future.

Reduced Impact on Marine Life

Compostable materials that break down in composting conditions are less likely to contribute to marine pollution, compared to traditional plastics; this helps reduce the negative impact of plastic waste on marine ecosystems, and in turn, protects these ecosystems from damage.

Consumer Confidence

Packaging materials certified to comply with EN 13432 standards often display recognisable certification labels, such as the seedling logo. This provides consumers with a visible indication that the packaging is designed to be compostable and has been through the testing process to ensure this compostability, fostering confidence in environmentally friendly choices, and fulfilling sustainability quotas.

Promotion of Sustainable Practices

EN 13432 encourages the adoption of sustainable practices by manufacturers, retailers, and consumers. It supports the development and use of packaging materials that align with environmentally responsible principles; the more businesses which comply with this and adopt these standards, the more positive implications it will have on the environment.

Public Awareness and Education

EN 13432 and associated certification labels contribute to public awareness and education regarding compostable packaging. This can lead to informed consumer choices and an increased understanding of the environmental impact of packaging materials; for example, some companies may only want to work with materials which comply with the standard, increasing trade with those who are compliant. Businesses have a duty of care to adhere to when it comes to the environment, so many people may look to those who are adopting sustainable values.

Do UK Companies Need to Comply with EN 13432 Post-Brexit?

Post-Brexit, UK companies are not legally obligated to comply with the EN 13432 standard as it is a European standard adopted by the European Union (EU). However, compliance with EN 13432 may still be desirable for UK companies who wish to export their products to EU member states or who want to demonstrate their commitment to environmental sustainability.

The UK has its own standards-setting bodies and regulations governing packaging, such as the Packaging (Essential Requirements) Regulations. These regulations may have similar requirements to EN 13432 or may reference international standards.

An Example of an EN 13432 Compliant Product - Biodegradable Film

In the packaging industry, there are a range of products and materials which qualify for the standard. At Industrial Polythene, we offer biodegradable film which is EN 13432 compliant, alongside our other greener packaging solutions; biodegradable film can be used in pallet wraps, hygiene products, consumer electronics and agricultural products.

The Future of Biodegradable Products

Regulations such as the EN 13432 standard are beneficial for businesses in the modern world in terms of sustainability goals. Put simply, the more businesses that are compliant, the better off our environment will be. However, a holistic approach to the entire lifecycle of packaging materials is important for the future of industrial recycling. Adhering to the EN 13432 standard is just one part of the wider picture; greater innovation and further research into sustainable practices within the industrial world is a step in the right direction for a greener future. Perhaps, in upcoming times, the biodegradability and compostability of materials will be even more successful than it is now. As technologies develop, more businesses may make the shift to eco-friendly practices such as biodegradable materials. The goal? Protecting and saving our planet.

Let Us Help You Improve Your Corporate Social Responsibility With Biodegradable Polythene Solutions

At Industrial Polythene, we understand the importance of environmentally friendly products. Get in contact with us today to discuss our range of biodegradable films available, helping your business play its part in enabling a greener future.