Understanding EN13432 Certification: What It Means for Compostable Dog Poop Bags
Understanding EN13432 Certification: What It Means for Compostable Dog Poop Bags
In an era where environmental sustainability is paramount, pet owners are increasingly seeking eco-friendly alternatives for everyday tasks like cleaning up after their dogs. One such innovation is compostable dog poop bags, but not all “green” claims are equal. This is where certifications like EN13432 come into play. As a leading manufacturer of biodegradable and compostable products, Torise Biomaterials specializes in creating solutions that meet rigorous international standards, ensuring that our products contribute positively to the planet.
EN13432 is a European standard that defines the requirements for packaging recoverable through composting and biodegradation. Established in 2000 by the European Committee for Standardization (CEN), it sets the benchmark for what truly qualifies as compostable in industrial composting facilities. For dog poop bags, this certification helps ensure the product will break down safely without leaving harmful residues—making it a trusted choice for environmentally conscious consumers.
EN13432 Explained: Background and Benefits
The EN13432 standard was developed to address growing plastic waste in Europe. It aligns with the European Packaging and Packaging Waste Directive (94/62/EC), promoting materials that can be composted as an alternative to landfilling or incineration. The purpose is to ensure that compostable products decompose into carbon dioxide, water, and biomass within a specific timeframe, enriching soil without toxicity.
This certification is particularly relevant for single-use items like dog poop bags, which contribute significantly to municipal waste. EN13432-conformant bags can break down within 3–6 months under industrial composting conditions, helping divert waste from landfills.
Key Criteria of EN13432 Certification
To achieve EN13432 certification, products are assessed across four stringent pillars to ensure true compostability.
1) Biodegradability
At least 90% of the material must biodegrade within 6 months in controlled composting. For compostable dog poop bags, plant-derived polymers (e.g., PLA) and PBAT blends convert into natural elements without persistent residues.
Target: 90% in 6 months
2) Disintegration
Within 12 weeks, the product should disintegrate into fragments <2 mm, ensuring clean, workable compost and smooth facility operations.
3) No Negative Effects on Composting
Material must not hinder composting performance. Compost quality and plant growth are tested to confirm there are no phytotoxic effects.
4) Low Heavy Metal Content
Strict thresholds for heavy metals (e.g., Pb, Hg, Cd) prevent soil contamination and ensure the resulting compost is safe for agricultural use.
Why EN13432 Matters for Compostable Dog Poop Bags
Dog owners generate substantial waste each year. Traditional plastic bags can persist for centuries. EN13432-conformant poop bags provide a verified path to complete decomposition in industrial composting, avoiding microplastics and reducing long-term pollution.
Unlike vague “biodegradable” claims (including some oxo-fragmentable plastics), EN13432 requires measurable biodegradation and disintegration—helping consumers avoid greenwashing.
Benefits of Using EN13432-Conformant Poop Bags
- Environmental Impact: Reduces plastic pollution and methane-generating landfill loads.
- Soil Enrichment: Properly composted materials contribute to healthy, nutrient-rich compost.
- Everyday Practicality: Strong, leak-resistant bags that are easy to carry and tie.
- Regulatory Alignment: Meets EU compostability requirements; look for complementary standards like ASTM D6400 for U.S. contexts.
How Torise Biomaterials Ensures EN13432 Compliance
As a BSCI, Sedex, ISO, BRC, and ISCC-certified company, Torise integrates sustainability into every step. Our R&D center (est. 2014) holds 23 national patents and collaborates with institutes to advance bio-based materials.
Our compostable pet waste bags are produced from natural plant-derived resins (e.g., PLA) and PBAT for durability. Independent testing verifies biodegradation pace, disintegration, and heavy-metal limits.
*Where explicitly labeled for home composting.
Our Product Features
- Material: Cornstarch-based blends with PBAT for flexibility and toughness.
- Certifications: EN13432, ASTM D6400, OK Compost (Home/Industrial where applicable).
- Customization: Size, color, thickness, and branding; MOQs from 50,000 pcs.
Choosing the Best EN13432-Conformant Poop Bags
What to Look For
- The EN13432 logo and third-party verification marks.
- Thickness around ≥ 15 µm for reliable strength.
- Customizable sizing to fit common dispensers.
- Complementary certifications (e.g., ASTM D6400) for regional alignment.
Torise offers flexible ODM/OEM services to tailor bags to your market and brand needs. Samples available upon request.
Conclusion
Understanding EN13432 empowers pet owners to make informed choices about sustainable waste management. By choosing certified compostable dog poop bags, you’re not just cleaning up—you’re contributing to a healthier planet. Torise Biomaterials is proud to supply solutions that embody this standard, backed by deep expertise and continuous innovation.
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