Biodegradable

Certification of the biodegradability of your product can help you:

• Build consumer confidence
• Provide a clear choice in a crowded market
• Demonstrate leadership by ensuring that water resources are not impacted by the use of your product
• Satisfy purchase requirements and customer specifications

Certification Support

SCS provides ongoing program support, including staff assistance, marketing and promotional support, and information about new or revised requirements. You will receive information about use of the SCS Kingfisher certification mark for both on-product and off-product promotions.

1. Data Collection and Analysis

   Your auditor helps you assemble your data and documentation. We review your information to determine if conformance is achieved and the nature of your claim. Your auditor analyzes your data to determine whether biodegradability or aquatic toxicity testing is needed. If so, your auditor recommends products and laboratories for testing.

2. Draft Assessment Report

   Your auditor writes a draft assessment report that details the findings of the audit, including data analysis, non-conformities, and opportunities for improvement. You are required to respond to any non-conformities with a root cause analysis and corrective action.

3. Internal Peer Review and Client Review

   A qualified SCS lead auditor reviews the report, making any necessary corrections or changes. The report is sent to you for review, and you may comment on the information contained in the report and the conclusions drawn by the auditor.

4. Corrective Actions

   You respond to any non-conformities with a Corrective Action Plan. You may also make comments and responses to the information contained in the report and the conclusions drawn by the auditor.

5. Certification Decision

   If certification is granted, SCS will issue the certificate(s), logos, and final report to you. Once certified, your company and products will be listed on the SCS Certified Green Products Guide. SCS can also provide limited marketing support.

6. Certification Maintenance and Renewal

   Certification is valid for one year. SCS requires annual audits to maintain your certification and support continual improvement.

What products qualify for SCS biodegradable certification?

SCS certifies biodegradable liquid cleaning products - liquid soaps, detergents, degreasers, and cleansers. In addition to being biodegradable, products must not contain phosphates or be toxic to aquatic species. SCS only certifies products that meet the OECD's definition of "Ready Biodegradability".

What is a biodegradable material?

Biodegradable materials break down into smaller compounds via biological activity. Microbial organisms transform the chemicals through metabolic or enzymatic processes. Biodegradation processes vary greatly, but the final product of aerobic degradation usually is carbon dioxide (CO₂), water, and minerals (salts). Other gases (e.g., N₂ or H₂S) may also result.

What is the difference between biodegradable and compostable?

Biodegradable - biodegrades under aerobic conditions when released into the environment (e.g. soil or water) and results in CO₂, water, and minerals. Usually used for liquid products.

Compostable - biodegrades under aerobic conditions in a controlled environment (e.g., municipal and industrial composting facilities) at a rate similar to known compostable items (e.g., food), and results in a relatively homogeneous and stable humus-like substance. Usually used for solid products.

Does SCS provide certification support?

SCS provides ongoing program support, including staff assistance, marketing and promotional support, and information about new or revised requirements. Certified clients will receive information about the use of the SCS Kingfisher certification marks for both on-product and off-product promotions.