Explanatio n of Terms Biodegradable Being biodegradable means that the material has the ability to decompose fully in nature without any specific treatment. The material or product is of 100% natural origin without any use of harmful chemicals or additives. These materials will turn into water, carbon dioxide, and biomass when decomposed, without leaving anything else behind. Compostable Compostable means that the materials allow biodegradability under specific conditions, meaning they can be decomposed in an industrial composting facility. These products are fulfilling the requirements of the European Standard EN 13432. The standard is setting the framework that the composting time may take between 90-180 days and that the products may not leave any toxic residues. Connection between biodegradable and compostable Materials from purely natural resources such as wood, bagasse, palm leaves and paper pulp are considered as biodegradable without any testing in accordance to the European Standard EN 13432. Whereas bioplastics such as PLA must be tested for biodegradability before being viewed as compostable. Products tested for biodegradability according to European Standard EN 13432 are labelled with Din Certco. Carbon Footprint CO2 neutral / carbon neutral The carbon footprint is a description and measurement of the total amount of CO2 emissions of activities by individuals, companies, organizations, services and products consumed in a given timeframe. The carbon footprint is used in order to clearly symbolize how different behaviors impact the planet. A material is characterized as CO2 neutral if it does not emit more CO2 under incineration than it does during natural breakdown. Sugar Cane Bagasse Bagasse is a perfect eco-friendly alternative. Bagasse is a material made from the waste of sugar production. When the sugar is extracted from sugar cains the cain is left behind. This material is shredded and cleaned to bagasse fibers. These fibers can be made into various kinds of products and are suitable for hot and cold dishes as well as for heating in the microwave oven. Furthermore, bagasse is 100% biodegradable and can be composted very easily. Under controlled composting bagasse is degraded within 30-90 days. Besides, bagasse is CO2 neutral and 100% renewable. Clay Coating Clay coating means that the top side of the cardbord is coated with an ultra thin layer of caolin (clay). This could be compared to porcelain on a dish. Clay coating is not any special barrier. It is just a natural layer which makes the board surface a little bit smoother. Clay coating is biodegradable, compostable and of natural origin. Palm Leaves The production of palm leaf products is very simple and sustainable. The naturally shed palm leaves are collected at the palm plantation, cleaned, and heat pressed into different sizes and shapes. Through this type of production palm leaves are 100% free of chemicals and other additives as well as fully biodegradable and compostable. In addition, palm leaves are CO2 neutral and 100% renewable. 5
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