In India, the demand for eco-friendly alternatives to plastic has grown rapidly. Among them, compostable bags have become popular for households, businesses, and retailers. But here’s the challenge—not every bag marketed as “compostable” is genuinely certified. Some products misuse labels or claim compliance without proper testing. For businesses and consumers alike, it’s important to know how to identify a CPCB certified compostable bag and whether it meets ISO 17088 India standards.
This guide will help you understand certifications like ISO 17088 and CPCB certification, what to look for, and how to ensure you are buying genuinely eco-friendly bags.
Why Certification Matters for Compostable Bags
When a bag is claimed to be compostable, it means it should decompose completely into natural elements without leaving behind harmful microplastics or toxic residues. However, without the right certification, these claims can be misleading.
- Environmental protection – Certified bags prevent plastic pollution and support waste management systems.
- Legal compliance – Selling or using uncertified bags can lead to fines and penalties under India’s plastic waste management rules.
- Consumer trust – Proper certifications ensure that businesses are delivering genuinely sustainable products.
What Is ISO 17088?
ISO 17088 is the international standard that specifies how plastic materials should biodegrade under controlled composting conditions. Bags tested under this standard must:
- Break down into carbon dioxide, water, and biomass within a set time frame.
- Leave no toxic residues behind.
- Maintain safety for soil, plants, and the environment.
In India, only compostable products tested and certified as per ISO 17088 India guidelines are allowed to be manufactured, imported, or sold legally.
What Is CPCB?
The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) is the government authority responsible for regulating pollution and ensuring compliance with environmental standards in India.
When it comes to compostable bags:
- The CPCB provides certification and approval for manufacturers.
- Only CPCB certified compostable bags can be legally sold in the Indian market.
- Without CPCB certification, even if a bag claims ISO 17088 compliance, it cannot be marketed.
This means both ISO 17088 and CPCB certification are equally important for genuine eco-friendly packaging.
How to Check If a Compostable Bag Is Truly Certified
To make sure you’re buying a genuine product, follow these steps:
1. Look for the CPCB Certification Logo
Certified compostable bags carry the CPCB-approved logo and registration number. If this is missing, the product is not legally certified.
2. Verify the Manufacturer’s Name
The CPCB maintains a public list of approved manufacturers. You can cross-check the manufacturer’s details on the CPCB website before making a purchase.
3. Check for ISO 17088 Testing Compliance
Apart from CPCB approval, the bag should also mention ISO 17088 India testing standards. This confirms that the product has undergone rigorous biodegradability testing.
4. Avoid Bags with Misleading Labels
Beware of vague claims like “100% eco-friendly,” “green,” or “biodegradable” without official certification marks. These may be false marketing tactics.
5. Ask for the Certificate
If you’re a business sourcing bags in bulk, ask the supplier to provide a copy of their CPCB certification and ISO 17088 compliance test report. Genuine suppliers will readily share these documents.
Why Businesses Should Choose CPCB Certified Compostable Bags
For retailers, manufacturers, and businesses in India, compliance is not just an eco-friendly choice—it’s a legal requirement. Using CPCB certified compostable bags ensures:
- No risk of penalties under the Plastic Waste Management Rules.
- Higher trust among eco-conscious consumers.
- Contribution toward reducing plastic waste and supporting the circular economy.
Conclusion
With the rise of sustainable packaging, compostable bags have become a key player in reducing single-use plastic. But without proper ISO 17088 testing and CPCB certification, many products in the market are misleading. As a consumer or business, you must verify the bag’s authenticity by checking logos, certificates, and manufacturer listings.
By choosing CPCB certified compostable bags that comply with ISO 17088 India standards, you’re not only following the law but also making a positive impact on the environment.
FAQs on Compostable Bag Certification in India
1. What is ISO 17088?
ISO 17088 is an international standard that defines how plastics should biodegrade in composting conditions. In India, only bags tested as per ISO 17088 India are legally approved for compostable use.
2. Is ISO 17088 mandatory in India for compostable bags?
Yes. As per the Plastic Waste Management Rules, compostable bags must comply with ISO 17088 standards and also carry CPCB certification before being sold.
3. What is CPCB certification?
CPCB certification is an official approval by the Central Pollution Control Board. It ensures that compostable bags meet biodegradability standards and are legally valid in India.
4. How do I know if a bag is CPCB certified?
Look for the CPCB-approved logo and registration number on the packaging. You can also cross-check the manufacturer’s name on the official CPCB website.
5. Can I use any bag labeled as “biodegradable” or “eco-friendly”?
No. Many products misuse terms like “eco-friendly” or “biodegradable.” Unless the bag has CPCB certification and complies with ISO 17088 India, it is not considered genuine or legal.
6. Why should businesses use CPCB certified compostable bags?
Using CPCB certified compostable bags helps businesses avoid penalties, stay legally compliant, and build consumer trust while reducing plastic pollution.7. Where can I find CPCB certified compostable bags in India?
You can buy them from manufacturers and suppliers listed on the CPCB’s official website. Always ask for a certificate copy before purchasing in bulk.
