Bioplastic: bio-based vs. compostable
The term covers two different properties. Bio-based plastics take their carbon from renewable sources such as sugar cane, corn or vegetable oil (e.g. bio-PE, bio-PET); they may be chemically identical to fossil versions and need not biodegrade. Compostable plastics – PLA, PBAT, PHA, starch blends – break down within a set time under industrial composting according to EN 13432 or ASTM D6400, and some are fossil-based. When buying, ask separately for the bio-based content (ASTM D6866) and the compostability certificate (TÜV OK compost, BPI).
Related terms
Recycled content (PCR / PIR)
PCR (post-consumer recycled) material comes from packaging and products that have reached consumers and become waste; PIR (post-industrial recycled) comes from production scrap and trimmings. Rules such as the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) and brand pledges are setting minimum PCR shares in packaging. Recycled-content claims should be verified with certification such as GRS, RecyClass, EuCertPlast or ISCC PLUS (mass balance); food-contact rPET additionally needs an approved super-clean process.
Carbon footprint (product carbon footprint and Scopes 1-2-3) PCF
The total greenhouse-gas emissions caused by a product over its life cycle – usually from raw-material extraction to the factory gate (“cradle-to-gate”) – expressed in kg CO₂e and calculated under ISO 14067 and the GHG Protocol. At company level, Scope 1 covers direct emissions, Scope 2 purchased energy and Scope 3 the supply chain; most of a manufacturer’s Scope 3 comes from the raw materials it buys. That is why CBAM, CSRD reporting and brand targets now drive buyers to ask raw-material suppliers for verified product carbon footprints (PCF) and EPDs.