EN 13432 vs ASTM D6400 vs AS 4736 Compostable Standards
Table of Contents
Compostable packaging is not regulated by one global rule.
Different regions use different compostable standards, based on local waste systems, regulations, and composting infrastructure.
This is why EN 13432, ASTM D6400, and AS 4736 are not interchangeable, even though they all relate to compostable products.
This page explains the key differences between these three major compostable standards, what markets they apply to, and how buyers should choose the right one.
Why Compostable Standards Are Not the Same Worldwide
The word “compostable” does not have one global definition.
Each region designs its compostable standards around:
Local composting facilities
Waste collection systems
Environmental regulations
Contamination control rules
Because of this, a product that meets one compostable standard may not be accepted in another market.
This is also why certification logos matter more than material claims.
What Is EN 13432?
EN 13432 is the compostable packaging standard used in the European Union.
It applies to products designed for industrial composting facilities, not home composting.
Key points:
Market: European Union
Composting environment: Industrial composting
Typical products: packaging, bags, films, food service items
Focus: biodegradation, disintegration, and compost quality
EN 13432 confirms that a product can break down under controlled industrial composting conditions within a defined time frame.
What Is ASTM D6400?
ASTM D6400 is the primary compostable plastics standard used in the United States.
Like EN 13432, it applies to industrial composting environments.
Key points:
Market: United States
Composting environment: Industrial composting
Commonly linked with: BPI Compostable certification
Focus: performance in US industrial composting systems
In the US, compostable products are often verified through certification programs that reference ASTM D6400.
What Is AS 4736?
AS 4736 is the industrial compostable standard used in Australia.
It is widely required for products used in commercial and council food-organics programs, including FOGO systems.
Key points:
Market: Australia
Composting environment: Industrial composting
Typical use: council organics bins, commercial food waste systems
Focus: performance in Australian composting conditions
AS 4736 does not mean a product is suitable for home composting.
Key Differences Between EN 13432, ASTM D6400, and AS 4736
| Aspect | EN 13432 | ASTM D6400 | AS 4736 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary market | European Union | United States | Australia |
| Composting type | Industrial | Industrial | Industrial |
| Typical acceptance | EU composting facilities | US composting facilities | AU council & commercial composting |
| Certification logos | Seedling / OK Compost Industrial | BPI Compostable | Seedling (AU) |
| Common mistake | Assumed global acceptance | Assumed EU equivalence | Confused with home compostable |
All three standards focus on industrial composting, but they are designed for different regional systems.
Can One Compostable Bag Meet All Three Standards?
In some cases, a compostable product can be tested and certified to multiple standards.
However, this is not always practical or necessary.
Key considerations:
Test requirements are similar but not identical
Certification costs increase with each standard
Acceptance depends on the target market, not the number of certificates
Buyers should not assume that one certification automatically covers all markets.
Which Compostable Standard Should Buyers Choose?
The correct standard depends on where the product will be used, not where it is manufactured.
Simple guidance:
EU market → EN 13432
US market → ASTM D6400 (often via BPI)
Australian market → AS 4736
Choosing the “strictest” standard is not always the right decision.
Choosing the relevant standard reduces compliance risk.
Common Buyer Mistakes When Comparing Compostable Standards
Many compliance problems come from misunderstanding standards.
Common mistakes include:
Treating compostable standards as global equivalents
Using certification logos in the wrong market
Confusing industrial compostable with home compostable
Relying on material claims instead of certification proof
These mistakes often lead to rejected products, relabeling costs, or customer complaints.
Key Takeaways
Compostable standards are market-specific
EN 13432, ASTM D6400, and AS 4736 are not interchangeable
All three apply to industrial composting, not home composting
Buyers should match standards to local waste systems
Clear understanding of compostable standards helps reduce compliance risk and improves long-term supply decisions.
FAQ
Are EN 13432 and ASTM D6400 equivalent?
They are similar in scope but designed for different regional composting systems. One does not automatically replace the other.
Is AS 4736 the same as EN 13432?
No. Both apply to industrial composting, but AS 4736 is designed specifically for Australian waste systems.
Can one product carry multiple compostable certifications?
Yes, in some cases. However, multiple certifications are not always required if the product is sold in a single market.
Does industrial compostable mean home compostable?
No. Industrial compostable products are not designed for home composting unless they are certified separately.
Should buyers trust material claims like PLA or PBAT?
Material claims alone are not enough. Certification logos provide verified proof of compostability.
