Biodegradability validation

Proving a product's biodegradability has become a central issue for manufacturers committed to eco-design. Whether you're developing a detergent, cosmetic, bio-based packaging, or an additive, biodegradability validation allows you to scientifically document your product's environmental performance and support your claims.

This approach serves several purposes: obtaining an environmental label (Ecocert, European Ecolabel, etc.), complying with regulatory requirements (REACH, CLP, Biocidal Products Regulation), differentiating a product in a market increasingly sensitive to environmental claims, and securing a "biodegradable" claim against greenwashing controls. In all cases, the goal is the same: to have reliable and recognized proof.

Which biodegradability method should be chosen?

There is no single way to test biodegradability, but rather several standardized approaches, which should be selected according to the nature of your product, its solubility, and the intended purpose. The choice of method is crucial: an unsuitable test can lead to an uninterpretable result or one that is not acceptable from a regulatory standpoint.

The table below summarizes the main scenarios to guide you:

For a soluble organic substance requiring the demonstration of easy biodegradability, the reference test is the OECD 301 protocol, the procedure and variants of which we detail in our dedicated sheet: biodegradability analysis – OECD 301 test.

How is a biodegradability test conducted?

Regardless of the protocol chosen, the general principle is to bring the substance into contact with an inoculum of microorganisms under controlled conditions, most often aerobic, and then to monitor its degradation over time.

Depending on the method, various parameters are measured periodically: oxygen consumption (respirometry), carbon dioxide (CO₂) production, or the reduction of dissolved organic carbon (DOC). These measurements quantify the rate of degradation and determine whether the substance meets the thresholds defined by the applicable standard. The duration of the tests varies from a few weeks (easy biodegradability) to several months (compostability, ultimate biodegradability).

Which sectors are affected?

Biodegradability validation is relevant to all stakeholders subject to environmental requirements or committed to sustainable practices: cosmetics and detergents (surfactants, functional agents), packaging, materials and polymers (bio-based or compostable materials), specialty chemicals, food processing, and nutraceuticals. Design offices and R&D departments use it from the initial design phase to guide ingredient selection towards more environmentally friendly solutions.

How YesWeLab helps you choose the right method

The main challenge in biodegradability validation lies in selecting the right test for your product and regulatory objective. This is precisely where our scientific team comes in: we help you identify the most relevant method, prepare your regulatory dossiers, and interpret your results.

At YesWeLab, we collaborate with a carefully selected network of laboratories, most of which are certified and/or accredited (ISO 17025, COFRAC, etc.), chosen according to your specific needs, the matrices to be analyzed, and the required techniques. You also benefit from access to a catalog of over 10,000 analyses and personalized support throughout your project.

Since 2020, many manufacturers, distributors and design offices have trusted us to manage their analyses, entrusting us with their samples via our digital platform.

To learn more or to submit a specific need, contact our team now.