scope:

This document summarizes the state of standardization in the field of biodegradable plastics and plastics products at CEN and ISO level. It explains the underlying scientific principles of biodegradation that provide the foundations for relevant test methods and enters into the merits of the individual tests to explain and clarify the reasons for the adoption of specific solutions and criteria.

This document primarily focusses on standards adopted by CEN covering environmental biodegradation testing and relevant specifications. It also includes information on disintegration and eco-toxicity tests. A full list of the international standards considered in this document is provided in Annex A.

In a second part, this document highlights areas where standardization in this field is currently lacking and where future developments may be anticipated and useful.