Standardised bio-based products
A bio-based product is a non-food item composed mainly of renewable agricultural or forestry materials. The EU develops harmonised standards for such products to reduce trade barriers and foster a pan-European market. The EU-funded KBBPPS (Knowledge based bio-based products' pre-standardization) project helped increase the EU's uptake speed concerning standards and certification systems for bio-based products. Team members researched and demonstrated carbon content determination, biomass content methods not dependent on carbon-14 analysis, biodegradability and ecotoxicity test schemes. They subsequently identified and resolved bottlenecks, as part of developing and validating test methodologies. Additionally, the group studied the possibilities of improving sample preparation and treatments. Workers helped optimise the definition of bio-based products, and investigated practical testing solutions to biodegradation and biologically derived elements. Project results contributed to two new European standards, generic standards on biodegradation in soil and fresh water, among others. The team also commenced work on a further four standards. Other outcomes included exchange of information with collaborating organisations in Australasia and the United States. The exchange involved discussions about changes to standards and the possibility of a more formal collaborative arrangement. KBBPPS produced new definitions, assessment methods and standards concerning bio-based products. Such results help the EU regulate the industry for overall benefit.
Keywords
Bio-based products, toxicity, biodegradation, KBBPPS, standards and certification
