Understanding EN13432 Certification

When choosing compostable products for your healthcare facility, you'll often see references to EN13432 certification. But what does this standard actually mean, and why should you care?

What is EN13432?

EN13432 is the European standard that defines the requirements for packaging recoverable through composting and biodegradation. It was established in 2000 and is the gold standard for verifying that products are truly compostable.

This comprehensive standard was developed by the European Committee for Standardization (CEN) in response to growing concerns about plastic waste and the need for reliable compostable alternatives. Unlike simple biodegradability claims, EN13432 provides a rigorous, scientifically-backed framework for testing and verifying compostable products.

The Four Key Requirements

To achieve EN13432 certification, a product must pass four tests:

1. Biodegradability

The product must convert to CO2 by biological processes (at least 90% within 6 months under controlled composting conditions). This test uses respirometry to measure the actual CO2 production, ensuring the material is being consumed by microorganisms rather than simply fragmenting.

2. Disintegration

The product must physically break down so that no more than 10% of the original material remains after 12 weeks of composting. The remaining fragments must pass through a 2mm sieve, ensuring no visible plastic pieces remain in the finished compost.

3. Ecotoxicity

The resulting compost must not have any negative effect on plant growth when compared to standard compost. This involves growing test plants (typically cress and beans) in the compost to ensure it's safe for agricultural use.

4. Heavy Metals

The product must not contain heavy metals above specified limits. This includes restrictions on zinc, copper, nickel, cadmium, lead, mercury, chromium, molybdenum, selenium, and arsenic to protect soil health.

Testing Process and Timeline

The EN13432 certification process typically takes 6-12 months and involves multiple stages:

• Initial material analysis: Chemical composition and heavy metal content testing
• Biodegradation testing: 6-month controlled composting environment study
• Disintegration testing: 12-week physical breakdown assessment
• Ecotoxicity testing: Plant growth studies using resulting compost
• Third-party verification: Independent laboratory confirmation of results

EN13432 vs Other Standards

While EN13432 is the European gold standard, it's worth understanding how it compares to other certification schemes:

ASTM D6400 (US Standard)

Similar requirements to EN13432 but adapted for North American composting conditions. Products meeting EN13432 often also meet ASTM D6400 requirements.

AS 4736 (Australian Standard)

Based on EN13432 principles but modified for Australian environmental conditions and composting facilities.

OK Compost HOME

A more stringent standard requiring products to compost in home composting conditions (lower temperatures), which is more challenging than industrial composting.

Why EN13432 Matters for Healthcare

Avoiding Greenwashing

Many products claim to be "biodegradable" or "eco-friendly" without proper certification. EN13432 provides verifiable proof of compostability, backed by rigorous scientific testing that healthcare facilities can trust.

Regulatory Compliance

As Ireland and the EU increase sustainability requirements, having certified products helps ensure compliance with current and future regulations. The EU's Single-Use Plastics Directive specifically references EN13432 as the standard for compostable alternatives.

Waste Management Integration

Products certified to EN13432 can be processed in industrial composting facilities, making waste management simpler and more effective. This is particularly important for healthcare facilities looking to divert waste from landfills.

Staff Confidence and Training

Clear certification standards make it easier to train staff on proper disposal methods. When products carry EN13432 certification, there's no ambiguity about their end-of-life handling.

Implementing EN13432 Products in Your Facility

Waste Stream Assessment

Before switching to certified compostable products, assess your current waste streams. Identify which items could be replaced with EN13432-certified alternatives and calculate potential environmental impact.

Composting Infrastructure

Check availability of industrial composting facilities in your area. Many Irish counties now have commercial composting operations that accept EN13432-certified materials.

Cost-Benefit Analysis

While EN13432-certified products may have higher upfront costs, factor in potential waste disposal savings, regulatory compliance benefits, and positive environmental impact when evaluating total cost of ownership.

Real-World Benefits

Healthcare facilities using EN13432-certified products report several key advantages:

• Reduced waste management costs: Composting fees are often lower than landfill costs
• Improved sustainability metrics: Clear documentation for sustainability reporting
• Enhanced reputation: Demonstrable commitment to environmental responsibility
• Future-proofing: Preparation for stricter environmental regulations

Common Misconceptions

"Marine Biodegradable"

EN13432 certification does not mean marine biodegradability. These products are designed for industrial composting conditions, not marine environments.

"Home Composting"

Standard EN13432 products require industrial composting facilities with controlled temperature and humidity. They may not break down properly in home compost bins.

"Recyclable"

Compostable products certified to EN13432 should not be placed in recycling streams, as they can contaminate plastic recycling processes.

The Future of Compostable Standards

The EN13432 standard continues to evolve with new research and technology. Current developments include:

• Enhanced testing methods for microplastic formation
• Stricter requirements for certain product categories
• Integration with digital tracking systems for waste management
• Expanded scope to cover more product types beyond packaging

HaPPE Earth's Commitment

All HaPPE Earth compostable PPE products are EN13432 certified. We undergo rigorous third-party testing to ensure our products meet and exceed these standards. Our certification documents are available for review, and we work closely with healthcare facilities to ensure proper implementation and disposal.

We also maintain certification to complementary standards including ASTM D6400 and TÜV AUSTRIA OK Compost Industrial, providing our customers with confidence in global markets and various composting systems.

Questions about our certifications? Get in touch with our team.