Eco-Friendly Certification (BPI, OK Compost)

Overview #

Environmental certifications play an important role in helping businesses evaluate sustainable packaging materials. For molded pulp packaging, independent certification programs can provide evidence that specific products meet recognized environmental performance standards.

BonitoPak offers fiber-based molded pulp packaging solutions for businesses seeking alternatives to conventional plastic packaging. Understanding certification requirements helps customers select materials that align with their sustainability objectives.

Understanding BPI Certification #

The Biodegradable Products Institute (BPI) operates a third-party certification program for compostable products and packaging in North America.

BPI certification evaluates eligible products against applicable compostability standards, including ASTM D6400 and ASTM D6868, depending on the product type.

Key Aspects of BPI Certification #

• Third-party evaluation of compostability requirements
• Assessment against applicable industry standards
• Review of relevant material and product characteristics
• Requirements related to product identification and certification claims
• Verification of eligibility for the certification program

BPI certification applies to specific approved products, not automatically to every product made from plant-based fibers.

Understanding OK Compost Certification #

OK compost is a certification system administered by TÜV AUSTRIA for products that meet specified compostability requirements.

The program includes different certification categories based on the intended composting environment.

OK Compost INDUSTRIAL #

OK compost INDUSTRIAL certification evaluates products for compostability under controlled industrial composting conditions.

It is associated with applicable standards such as EN 13432 for packaging.

OK Compost HOME #

OK compost HOME certification evaluates products against requirements intended for home composting conditions.

Home composting and industrial composting are different processes, and certification under one program does not automatically establish compliance with the other.

Compostability and Biodegradability #

Although these terms are related, they have different meanings.

Biodegradability #

Biodegradability describes the ability of a material to break down through biological processes under specified environmental conditions.

The rate and extent of degradation depend on factors such as temperature, moisture, microbial activity, and material composition.

Compostability #

Compostability refers to the ability of a material to meet defined requirements for biodegradation, disintegration, and compost quality under specified composting conditions.

A product described as compostable should have appropriate supporting evidence for its intended disposal environment.

Environmental Considerations for Molded Pulp Packaging #

Molded pulp packaging is generally manufactured using fiber-based materials such as recycled paper, bagasse, bamboo, or wood pulp.

Potential environmental considerations include:

• Use of renewable or recovered fiber resources
• Opportunities to reduce conventional plastic packaging
• Product design that supports material efficiency
• Recyclability where suitable collection and processing facilities exist
• Potential compostability for qualifying product formulations
• Responsible selection of coatings, inks, and additives

Environmental performance must be assessed for the complete finished product.

Factors Affecting Certification Eligibility #

Certification eligibility can depend on several product-specific factors:

• Fiber composition and material sourcing
• Chemical additives and binders
• Surface coatings and treatments
• Printing inks and colorants
• Finished product thickness and structure
• Applicable testing requirements
• Intended composting environment

Changes to product formulations or manufacturing processes may affect certification eligibility.

Certification Verification #

Customers requesting certified compostable packaging should verify the certification status of the exact finished product.

Relevant documentation may include:

• Certificate issued by the certification organization
• Product identification and certification scope
• Applicable certification standard
• Certificate validity and current status
• Supporting test reports, where available

Certification logos should only be displayed on products and marketing materials when their use is authorized under the relevant certification program.

Selecting Environmentally Responsible Packaging #

When choosing molded pulp packaging, businesses should evaluate both product performance and environmental requirements.

Important considerations include protective functionality, material composition, manufacturing feasibility, transportation requirements, and available end-of-life infrastructure.

A suitable packaging solution should meet the practical needs of the product while supporting clearly defined sustainability goals.

Discuss Your Packaging Requirements #

BonitoPak provides customized molded pulp packaging solutions for a variety of industries.

If your project requires certified compostable packaging, contact our team to discuss material options, product specifications, and the certification documentation required for your application.

Certification availability and compliance must be confirmed for the specific finished product before any certification claim is made.