European group publishes bioplastics guide

False or misleading communication of environmental product properties is a widespread problem in the marketplace. European Bioplastics, an industry association, has considered this subject and published its Environmental Communications Guide for Bioplastics.

"Together with the bioplastics industry, we want to set a new benchmark for good environmental communication-all along the value chain," says Andy Sweetman, chairman, European Bioplastics.

Communicating environmental profiles and delivering ample and honest information while meeting national and international (communication) standards is not always an easy task for communication and marketing experts. However, especially when it comes to the communication of environmental beneficial properties of products, flawless claims are a must.

European Bioplastics has developed its communications guide within an international working group of member and non-member experts. The 30-page brochure is available for download at http://en.european-bioplastics.org/ecg. A short summary of the key messages of the guide is also available in German, French, Spanish, Italian, Dutch and Swedish.

The brochure outlines general, ISO-compliant guidelines for environmental communication. In addition, it provides recommendations regarding relevant claims for bioplastics such as biobased, biodegradable, compostable or CO2 neutral. Recommendations are illustrated by both good and poor examples.

The guide is a source of information which is particularly relevant to the packaging sector, where bioplastics are commonly used. Both communications and marketing experts, as well as product designers and brand managers can get an up-to-date overview of the subject.

European Bioplastics represents the interests of the industry along the complete bioplastics‘ value chain. Its members produce, refine and distribute bioplastics.