A technical standard for packaging companies and brand owners demonstrating that packaging can be composted or organically recycled.
ISO 18606 specifies requirements and test methods for packaging intended to be organically recycled. It demonstrates that packaging materials are suitable for composting — critical as brands and regulators push toward more sustainable packaging solutions.
Book a Gap AssessmentThe scope of ISO 18606:2013
- Biodegradability testingDefine and conduct the biodegradation testing protocols that verify packaging materials break down appropriately in organic recycling conditions.
- Disintegration requirementsDemonstrate that packaging disintegrates to a sufficient degree during the composting or organic recycling process without leaving undesirable residues.
- Effect on composting processAssess whether the packaging material negatively affects the quality of the resulting compost or the efficiency of the composting process.
- Ecotoxicity assessmentVerify that the compost produced in the presence of the packaging material does not exhibit ecotoxicological effects.
The business case
ISO 18606 compliance provides the technical basis for credible compostable packaging claims — backed by recognised test methods, not marketing language.
Major food brands and retailers are requiring evidence of packaging sustainability. ISO 18606 compliance provides the technical substantiation they need.
As regulations on single-use plastics tighten globally, packaging manufacturers that can demonstrate compostability will be preferred by brands and retailers seeking alternatives.
Emerging regulations on packaging sustainability and compostability claims are increasingly referencing international standards including ISO 18606.
The certification journey
Most firms hand you a document pack and leave. We stay with you from gap assessment through certification — and beyond.
We audit your current operations against the standard's requirements and show you exactly where you stand.
We build your management system — policies, procedures, process maps — tailored to how your business actually works.
We work alongside your team on the ground to embed the system into daily operations and train your people to own it.
We run a full internal audit cycle, close any gaps, and make sure you're ready before the certification body arrives.
We support you through the certification audit — and stay available for surveillance prep and continuous improvement after.
Ready to get certified?
Book a gap assessment and we'll show you exactly what it takes.
Book a Gap Assessment