What is ISO 17088?

ISO 17088 is officially titled:

“Specifications for compostable plastics”

This standard sets out requirements and procedures for plastics to be considered compostable, including:

  1. Chemical composition and heavy metal limitations
  2. Biodegradability under industrial composting conditions
  3. Disintegration within a composting environment
  4. Impact on compost quality and eco-toxicity

It applies to plastic materials and products intended for organic recycling (i.e., industrial composting), such as:

  1. Compostable bags
  2. Food packaging
  3. Agricultural films
  4. Disposable tableware
  5. Single-use bioplastic items


Why is ISO 17088 important?

The global plastic pollution crisis has led governments, industries, and consumers to seek alternatives to conventional, non-degradable plastics. However, without clear criteria, terms like "biodegradable" or "compostable" can be misleading.

ISO 17088 addresses this challenge by providing a scientific and verifiable standard for identifying truly compostable plastic materials—offering trust and transparency throughout the product lifecycle.

What are the benefits of ISO 17088?

Adopting ISO 17088 ensures your biodegradable plastic products are safe, credible, and environmentally sound. Key benefits include:

  1. Clear Composability Criteria

          Ensures plastic products break down under industrial composting conditions.

  1. Toxicity Testing and Compost Safety

          Verifies the absence of harmful residues in the compost.

  1. Supports Green Labeling and Compliance

          Helps qualify for eco-certifications and sustainability programs.

  1. Enables Circular Economy Practices

          Promotes organic recycling and reduces landfill waste.

  1. Applicable Across Industries

          From food packaging to agriculture, ISO 17088 serves diverse sectors.


What kind of businesses can benefit from ISO 17088?

Implementing ISO 17088 in your operations or product design offers your business a powerful sustainability edge:

  1. Boost Market Trust and Eco-Credibility

         Gain consumer and client confidence through certified composability claims.

  1. Comply with Regulations and Bans

          Meet global and regional regulations that restrict non-compostable single-use plastics.

  1. Expand into Eco-Friendly Markets

          Position your business as a leader in green innovation and sustainable packaging.

  1. Support Corporate ESG Goals

          Align with environmental responsibility and reduce your carbon and waste footprint.

  1. Reduce Environmental Liability

          Mitigate risks associated with greenwashing or false biodegradability claims.

  1. Enable Certification and Labeling

          Facilitate third-party certification from recognized compostable labeling organizations (e.g., TÜV Austria, BPI).


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