International Standard EN 13432 is the recognised standard for biodegradable plastics. A product MUST pass all four phases of testing in order to classify as Biodegradable (compostable).             Phase 1 - EN 13432. Specifies permissible levels for volatile content, heavy metals and lists testing requirements. Phase 2 - ISO 16929 Determines the degree of disintegration of plastic materials under defined composting conditions in a pilot-scale test. A 12 week composting test where 90% of plastic must fragment to particles less than 2 mm. Phase 3 - ISO 14855 Determines the ‘ultimate aerobic biodegradability and disintegration of plastics under controlled composting conditions by analysis of evolved carbon dioxide’. A 6 months biodegradation test where 90% of the plastic must completely mineralize to CO2 and water. Phase 4 - OECD208A Toxicity testing to determine the final compost quality using plant seedlings, or alternatively OECD Guideline 207 by an earthworm toxicity test. Biodegradable resins are plastics that can naturally decompose with the aid of microbial organisms and will not persist in the environment beyond a certain time period (usually 6 months). Biograde produces resins that are naturally biodegradable (compostable). Derived from corn starch & blended with polyesters