BPI
BPI (Biodegradable Products Institute) is a laboratory controlled testing certification. It aims to show that a product will break down in the right laboratory conditions within 180 days. There are also product formulation requirements, as well as plant growth testing from the end compost. You may also hear it referred to as ASTM D6400 or D6868. These are the names of the testing schemes that are followed. BPI is the most recognized compostable certification in North America.
CMA
The CMA (Compost Manufacturing Alliance) is an extremely important approval for compostable products. There are several different systems that can be used to turn organic waste into compost. CMA performs real-world tests for compostable products by placing them in these facilities and closely monitoring the conditions and the degradation of these products. Many composters rely on their work to know what to accept in their facility.
