Biobased
 
Consumers are increasingly drawn to products that carry the claim of being biobased as they attempt to reduce their impact on the planet and this trend is expected to continue, and over the next ten years.
 
Where there is an increased demand for products that can claim to be biobased, there is also the opportunity for greenwashing. Since it is difficult for consumers to instantly tell the difference between a material, especially plastic, that can genuinely carry the claim and one that is falsely labeled, it is important for businesses looking to expand their market share to find a way to display the veracity of their claim. 

 

Significance:
 
  • Can support the move away from petroleum-based materials.
  • Some companies target the use of biobased materials.
 
Example product:
 
  • Bio-based plastic toys
 
Why choose SGS for biobased materials certification?
 

Certification helps businesses demonstrate the validity of their biobased environmental attribute claim. This service applies to products made from plastics, such as plastic toys, kitchenware, and food packaging, as well as to other solids and liquids. 

Testing is conducted in two parts. Firstly, products are independently tested against either one of the following 14-carbon isotope analysis standards:

  • ASTM D6866 – Standard test methods for determining the biobased content of solid, liquid, and gaseous samples using radiocarbon analysis
  • EN 16640 – Biobased Products – Determination of the biobased carbon content using the radiocarbon method 
  • ISO 16620-2 – Plastics – Biobased content – Determination of biobased carbon content

They will also undergo qualitative analysis using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) and other relevant methodologies relating to the material. 

To be considered biobased, the material must meet the following requirements:

  • Minimum of 30% total carbon based on dry mass
  • Minimum of 20% biobased carbon content

Products that conform to these biobased criteria are certified for five years, with compulsory surveillance testing, and can display the SGS Biobased green mark.

 

 

Supporting business & brands to build trust in Sustainability claims.
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