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Understanding Certifications and Labels in the Biobased Products

Biobased products have emerged as a significant contributor to reducing our carbon footprint. With increasing consumer awareness and demand for eco-friendly products, the role of certification and labels becomes pivotal. Here, Alfa Chemistry will explore the importance of certifications and labels for biobased products, different types of certifications available, their benefits, and how they help both consumers and manufacturers.

What are Biobased Certifications and Labels?

Biobased certification and labels are used to identify and promote products that are derived from renewable biological sources, such as plants, renewable agricultural, marine, and forestry materials. These certifications and labels indicate the percentage of biobased content in a product, demonstrating its environmental sustainability, reduced dependence on fossil fuels, and potential for carbon sequestration. Certifications and labels for biobased products are typically awarded by third-party organizations that verify the product's biobased content through testing and analysis.

Why Certifications and Labels Matter?

Certifications and labels play a crucial role in the sustainable and ethical production of biobased products. They provide third-party verification, ensuring that the product meets specified standards. This verification helps build trust with consumers. Furthermore, certifications can help companies differentiate their products in a crowded marketplace. With consumers willing to pay a premium for certified green products, businesses that invest in getting their products certified can reap economic benefits and enhance their brand reputation.

Types of Certification and Labels for Biobased Products

A variety of certifications exist to confirm different aspects of biobased products. Here are some of the prominent ones:

USDA Certified Biobased Product

Agency: U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).
Description: Products that have been independently tested and certified to meet a specified minimum level of biobased content as defined by the USDA.
Certification Mark: USDA Certified Biobased Product label.
Applicable Products: All biobased products except food, feed and biofuels can apply for the label.

OK Biobased

Agency: TÜV Austria.
Description: This certification provides a reliable qualification of the renewable raw materials used in products. The certification quantifies the biobased content according to EN 16640 or CEN/TS 16137.
Certification Levels: The products can be certified with 1 to 4 stars, indicating the percentage of biobased content.
Applicable Products: Applicable to all products made partially or entirely from natural materials or polymers, excluding solid, gas, or liquid fuels, with a total carbon content of ≥30% (dry weight).

DIN-Geprüft Biobased

Agency: DIN CERTCO (a certification body of TÜV Rheinland).
Description: Certification is based on the amount of biobased carbon content as measured by the standard method ASTM D6866 or ISO 16620. This certification helps confirm that a product meets relevant standards for biobased content.
Applicable Products: Applicable to products made entirely or partially from biobased materials.

Benefits of Certification

For Consumers: Certifications offer assurance and clarity, helping consumers make well-informed purchasing decisions. Labels provide transparency about the ingredients and environmental impact, reducing the need for consumers to do exhaustive research.
For Manufacturers: For manufacturers, certifications help in meeting regulatory requirements and gaining a competitive edge. Certified products are more likely to be accepted in both domestic and international markets. Additionally, certifications can lead to innovations in production processes by encouraging the use of sustainable materials and practices.
For the Environment: The ultimate beneficiary of certifications and labels for biobased products is the environment. By promoting the use of renewable materials and sustainable practices, these certifications help lower the overall carbon footprint, reduce waste, and encourage the conservation of natural resources.

Explore Our Products

At Alfa Chemistry, we are committed to offering an extensive range of high-quality biobased products. Our products meet the highest standards of environmental sustainability and are backed by respected certifications. Whether you are a consumer looking to make greener choices or a manufacturer seeking premium raw materials, we are here to meet your needs. Join us on this journey to a more sustainable world.