The USDA Certified Biobased label is an important tool for identifying products made from renewable biological sources. This certification is becoming more recognized by both consumers and businesses as it promotes sustainability and encourages environmentally friendly practices. But what exactly does it mean when a product is USDA Certified Biobased? How does this certification help the growing biobased product market and why is it important for the future of sustainable product development?
Quick Links
● What is USDA Certified Biobased?
● Common Biobased vs. Non-Biobased Materials
● Key Benefits of USDA Certified Biobased Products
● Global Biobased Certifications
● How to Get USDA Certified Biobased
● USDA BioPreferred Program: Supporting a Sustainable Future
● FAQs
What is USDA Certified Biobased?
The USDA Certified Biobased label is given to products that are made from renewable biological sources, such as plants, marine life, or forestry materials. These products must meet strict guidelines set by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to qualify for certification.
The USDA BioPreferred® Program oversees the certification process. The program was created to increase the use of biobased products, reduce the reliance on petroleum-based products, and support the growth of sustainable materials. To become certified, a product must be tested to determine the percentage of biobased content it contains. The higher the percentage, the more biobased the product is.
This certification is important for both consumers and companies. Consumers get a clear label that helps them choose environmentally friendly products, while companies can market their certified products as sustainable and responsible. Overall, the USDA Certified Biobased label helps promote the use of renewable resources, which is beneficial for the environment.
Common Biobased vs. Non-Biobased Materials
Biobased materials are made from renewable biological sources, while non-biobased materials typically come from non-renewable sources like petroleum, metals, or synthetic chemicals. Understanding the difference between these two types of materials is important when choosing sustainable products.
Common Biobased Materials:
Many everyday products are made from biobased materials, such as:
● Biobased leather – Made from plant-based sources, this alternative to traditional leather is often used in fashion and furniture.
● Biobased coatings – These coatings, derived from renewable resources, are used in everything from paints to food packaging.
● Biobased lubricants – Typically made from vegetable oils, these lubricants are used in machinery and vehicles as a more sustainable option than petroleum-based oils.
● Innovative materials like wheat straw and coffee grounds – These materials are becoming popular in products like utensils, tableware, and even furniture, reducing the need for plastics.
Non-Biobased Materials:
On the other hand, many traditional materials are not biobased and rely heavily on fossil fuels or non-renewable resources:
● Industrial plastics – Commonly used in packaging, containers, and countless other applications.
● Metals – Materials like iron, copper, and aluminum, while recyclable, are non-biobased.
● Synthetic rubber – Often used in tires, hoses, and other products, synthetic rubber is made from petroleum-based chemicals.
● Ceramics and glass – Both materials, though long-lasting and reusable, are not derived from biological sources.
Choosing biobased materials over non-biobased ones can help reduce environmental impact by lowering carbon emissions and decreasing reliance on fossil fuels.
Key Benefits of USDA Certified Biobased Products
USDA Certified Biobased products offer a variety of benefits, both for the environment and for businesses. As consumers become more aware of sustainability, products with this certification are gaining popularity in different industries.
Environmental Benefits
One of the biggest advantages of USDA Certified Biobased products is their positive impact on the environment. Since they are made from renewable resources, they help reduce the reliance on fossil fuels. This, in turn, lowers greenhouse gas emissions and helps combat climate change. Additionally, the use of biobased products supports sustainable agriculture and reduces waste, as many of these materials are biodegradable or recyclable.
Market Advantages
For businesses, having a USDA Certified Biobased label can provide a significant edge in the market. Consumers are increasingly looking for environmentally friendly products, and this certification signals that a product meets high sustainability standards. This can boost consumer trust, improve brand reputation, and even open up new market opportunities. Many companies also use the certification to differentiate their products from competitors, especially in industries where sustainability is a growing concern.
Economic Growth
The certification helps drive innovation in biobased product development. By encouraging the use of renewable resources, it opens up opportunities for new technologies and materials that can be more efficient and cost-effective. This not only benefits businesses but also supports local economies by creating demand for agricultural products used in biobased manufacturing.
Examples of Certified Products
Some of the most common USDA Certified Biobased products include packaging materials, household cleaning supplies, construction products, and personal care items. These products are used in everyday life, making it easier for consumers to make sustainable choices.
Global Biobased Certifications
While the USDA Certified Biobased label is highly regarded in the United States, there are several other certifications around the world that ensure products meet similar biobased standards. These certifications help promote sustainable products globally and provide assurance that products are made from renewable resources. Here’s a comparison of some of the most well-known biobased certifications:
USDA Certified Biobased:
The USDA’s certification is one of the most recognized in the world. It is managed by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and is valid indefinitely. For fabric-based products, the biobased content must be over 25%, and for plastic particles, it must be over 22%. Additionally, products may undergo random inspections, and those selected for review will need to be retested to maintain certification.
UL 9798 Biobased Certification:
Managed by Underwriters Laboratories (UL) in the United States, this certification is valid for one year. It focuses on verifying the biobased content of a product through annual testing. The certification also includes strict guidelines for labeling and marketing products as biobased.
DIN-Geprüft Biobased Certification:
This certification, managed by Germany’s DIN CERTCO, is valid for six years. It is recognized in Europe and ensures that products meet high standards for biobased content. Products with this certification are tested every second and fourth year of the certification period to maintain their label.
OK biobased Certification:
Austria’s TUV Austria manages the OK biobased certification. It is valid for five years and is widely recognized throughout Europe. The certification focuses on the percentage of biobased content in the product, with the highest rating being 100% biobased.
NEN Biobased Certification:
Managed by the Netherlands Standards Institute, this certification is also valid for five years. Similar to the other certifications, NEN biobased ensures that products meet specific biobased content requirements and undergo testing in the second and fourth years of certification.
Each of these certifications focuses on the percentage of renewable resources used in products. While the standards may vary slightly, they all aim to promote sustainability and help consumers identify products that reduce environmental impact. By having global certifications, companies can market their biobased products internationally and assure consumers of their commitment to sustainability.
Certification | Logo | Validity | Managing Body | Key Requirements |
USDA Certified Biobased |  | Permanent | United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) | - Biobased content for fabric products must be over 25% - Biobased content for plastic particles must be over 22% - Products are subject to random inspections and may need to be retested to maintain certification |
UL 9798 Biobased Certification |  | 1 year | Underwriters Laboratories (UL) | Annual testing to verify biobased content. |
DIN-Geprüft Biobased Certification |  | 6 years | DIN CERTCO (Germany) | Testing in 2nd and 4th year of certification. |
OK biobased Certification |  | 5 years | TUV Austria | Must undergo periodic inspections by the certifying body within the certification period. |
NEN Biobased Certification |  | 5 years | Netherlands Standards Institute | Testing in 2nd and 4th year of certification. |
How to Get USDA Certified Biobased
Obtaining USDA Certified Biobased certification for your product is a straightforward process, but it does require meeting specific criteria and following a series of steps to ensure compliance. Here’s an overview of how businesses can get their products certified:
Step 1: Review Eligibility
The first step is determining whether your product is eligible for certification. To qualify, the product must be made from renewable biological sources. The USDA provides a detailed list of product categories that can be certified, including household cleaners, packaging materials, lubricants, personal care items, and more. Products must also meet minimum biobased content requirements, which vary depending on the type of product.
Step 2: Submit an Application
Once eligibility is confirmed, businesses must submit an application to the USDA BioPreferred® Program. The application requires detailed information about the product, including its composition and manufacturing process. Applicants are also required to provide samples of the product for biobased content testing.
Step 3: Testing for Biobased Content
The next step involves testing the product to determine its biobased content. This is done through an independent lab that measures the percentage of renewable resources in the product. The USDA has strict guidelines for this testing, ensuring that the biobased content is accurately assessed. Products that meet or exceed the required minimum biobased content are eligible to proceed with certification.
Step 4: Certification and Labeling
Once the product passes the testing phase, the USDA will approve the certification and grant the right to use the USDA Certified Biobased Product label. This label includes the USDA logo and the specific biobased content percentage for that product. Businesses can now market their product with this label, showcasing its sustainability.
Step 5: Compliance and Audits
After certification, businesses must maintain compliance with USDA standards. This includes regular audits and reviews to ensure the product continues to meet the biobased content requirements. Products are subject to periodic testing, and any changes in product formulation must be reported to the USDA to maintain certification.
By following these steps, companies can gain USDA Certified Biobased status for their products, providing them with a competitive edge in the marketplace and appealing to environmentally conscious consumers.
USDA BioPreferred Program: Supporting a Sustainable Future
The USDA BioPreferred Program is a government initiative aimed at increasing the purchase and use of biobased products. Created by the 2002 Farm Bill and expanded in subsequent years, the program promotes sustainability by encouraging the development of products made from renewable resources.
Goals of the Program
The main goal of the USDA BioPreferred Program is to reduce the nation’s reliance on petroleum-based products while increasing demand for agricultural materials. By supporting the growth of biobased industries, the program aims to:
● Encourage innovation in sustainable product development.
● Support local economies, especially in rural areas where agricultural products are sourced.
● Reduce environmental impact by promoting the use of renewable resources.
How the Program Works
The program operates in two parts:
1. Mandatory Federal Purchasing: Federal agencies are required to prioritize biobased products when making purchases, provided that the products are available and meet performance standards. This encourages the use of sustainable products in government operations.
2. Voluntary Labeling Initiative: Private companies can apply for the USDA Certified Biobased label, allowing them to market their products as environmentally friendly. This label assures consumers that the product meets the USDA’s biobased content requirements.
Supporting Innovation and Economic Growth
Through the BioPreferred Program, the USDA helps foster innovation in sustainable product development. By encouraging companies to explore renewable resources, the program supports the creation of new materials and products that are both environmentally friendly and economically viable.
For example, biobased packaging and cleaning products are widely used in both federal operations and the private sector. These products reduce waste, decrease greenhouse gas emissions, and help companies achieve sustainability goals.
Reducing Environmental Hazards
One of the key benefits of the USDA BioPreferred Program is its focus on reducing environmental hazards. By promoting the use of biobased products, the program helps to lower the carbon footprint of various industries. Products that are biodegradable or compostable also contribute to less landfill waste, which is crucial for reducing pollution.
A Path Toward a Greener Future
As awareness of environmental issues grows, the BioPreferred Program plays a critical role in guiding both government and private industry toward more sustainable practices. By supporting the development and use of biobased products, the program helps ensure that future generations will have access to renewable resources and a cleaner environment.
FAQs
Q1: What does USDA Certified Biobased mean?
The USDA Certified Biobased label indicates that a product is made from renewable biological sources, such as plants or agricultural materials. The certification shows the product has been tested and meets the USDA's requirements for biobased content, which is expressed as a percentage on the label.
Q2: How do I know if a product is USDA Certified Biobased?
USDA Certified Biobased products will have a special label on their packaging. The label includes the USDA logo and the specific percentage of biobased content in the product, making it easy for consumers to identify.
Q3: Why is biobased certification important?
Biobased certification helps consumers make informed choices about sustainable products. It ensures that the product is made from renewable materials and supports the reduction of fossil fuel reliance, lowering the product's environmental impact.
Q4: What is the USDA BioPreferred® Program?
The USDA BioPreferred Program is a government initiative designed to encourage the use of biobased products. It includes both a federal purchasing requirement for biobased products and a voluntary labeling program for companies that want to market their products as biobased.
Q5: What kinds of products can be USDA Certified Biobased?
USDA Certified Biobased products cover a wide range, including everyday items like pen cases, notebooks, backpacks, as well as personal care products, cleaning supplies, and packaging materials. These products meet USDA standards for renewable content, making them eco-friendly choices for consumers looking to reduce their environmental impact.
Q6: Are biobased products better for the environment?
Yes, biobased products tend to have a smaller environmental impact than traditional products made from petroleum or other non-renewable resources. They often produce fewer greenhouse gases during production and are typically biodegradable or recyclable.
Q7: How does the USDA test biobased products?
The USDA requires products to undergo testing at independent laboratories. These tests determine the percentage of biobased content using the ASTM D6866 standard, which measures the carbon from renewable resources in the product.
Q8: How does Syloon contribute to the biobased industry?
At Syloon, we believe that sustainability is more than just a trend—it’s a responsibility. That’s why we’re proud to have earned the USDA Certified Biobased Product certification for our PU biobased products. This certification ensures that our products meet strict standards for renewable content, helping to reduce the use of fossil fuels and support a greener future.
We’re committed to offering high-quality solutions that are also better for the planet. By choosing our biobased products, you’re not only getting the performance you need but also contributing to a more sustainable world. Every step we take in developing our products is guided by a commitment to minimizing environmental impact, and we’re excited to partner with you in making more eco-friendly choices. Together, we can build a future that values both innovation and sustainability.
