The biodegradability of packaging and products is of major concern as reuse and recycling increases worldwide. This alternative disposal characteristic is especially important for materials and products that have the potential to be littered after use, sent to landfills or flushed into sewage treatment systems.

Measuring and clarifying a material or product’s biodegradability can be achieved through several basic tests. Clarification is important because though it may dissolve, dissipate, disintegrate or deteriorate a material or product may not actually biodegrade. Validation of biodegradation is only received through testing of the chemical carbon cycle.

ASTM D6400