About the Biodegradable Products Institute

The Biodegradable Products Institute (BPI) is a professional association of key individuals and groups from government, industry and academia, which promotes the use, and recycling of biodegradable polymeric materials (via composting). The BPI is open to any materials and products that demonstrate (via scientifically proven techniques) that their products are completly biodegradable in approved composting facilities.

BPI will accomplish its goals with three key components:

• Education
  Informing consumers, generators and municipal and industrial composters of the benefits and availability of biodegradable and compostable materials which meet the specifications outlined below, based on independent testing in the appropriate labs.
  
  
• Adoption of Scientifically Based Standards
  Promoting responsible use of the BPI Compostable Logo for any product which meets the requirements in ASTM D6400 or D6868, specifications based on more than 8 years of research by suppliers, composters and academia.
  
  
• Alliances with Other Organizations
  Working with other organizations to further the use and recovery of biodegradable materials, including harmonization of standards around the world.

When you buy a product labeled "biodegradable," look for the BPI Compostable Logo.  If you don't see it, ask your manufacturer or retailer to use it.