European Perspective on Biodegradable Resins - History, Drivers, Standards, Measurement, 2002 PLACE Conference Proceedings

Several European directives are changing the waste scene dramatically. The landfill directive is phasing out landfilling of all biodegradable waste. The incineration directive is imposing strict emission norms. The composting directive is striving for source-separated waste collection and biological treatment. The fate of packaging is largely defined by the packaging waste directive defining recovery and recycling targets. As a result, opportunities are created for compostable packaging in which coated paper could play a major role.

The EN 13432 compostability norm mentions tests and analyses but also specific pass levels. A first chapter is ‘material characteristics’. A second part deals with ‘biodegradation’. Basically the norm calls for compostable packaging to be fully biodegradable. The next topic is ‘disintegration’ or the physical disappearance of a specific form of packaging. This is evaluated in a pilot-scale or full-scale composting test. Finally, a last chapter deals with ‘compost quality’. Key elements for compostable coated paper is the use of a certified and approved resin and disintegration of the final product.

In April 2001 the world’s largest test market for compostable packaging was initiated in the German city of Kassel (200,000 inhabitants), involving packaging industry, food industry, retailers, consumers and waste industry. First results are very promising.