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On September 15th, 2020, the China National Light Industry Council (CNLIC) issued the Guidance on Classification and Labeling of Degradable Plastic Products [1], a move to push forward the implementation of government requirements regarding addressing plastic pollution.
Targeting particularly manufacturers and distributors of degradable plastic products as well as retailers and catering businesses, the Guidance is applicable to the identification management of degradable plastics and their products in the production and circulation processes.
Classification of degradable plastics
In light of different environment conditions, the Guidance divides degradable plastics into six types, including:
l Plastics which are degradable in soil
l Plastics which are biodegradable through composting
l Plastics which are degradable in the marine environment
l Plastics which are degradable in the freshwater environment
l Plastics which are biodegradable through anaerobic digestion of sludge
l Plastics which are biodegradable through high-solid anaerobic digestion
Labeling of degradable plastics
The Guidance also details requirements on labelling of degradable products. There are two types of labels in this regard, namely: text label and graphical label.
² Text label
Where businesses wish to use text labels, they will need to specify information including: product type (resin, Masterbatch, box, cup, etc.); product standards and standards on degradation testing methods used; product name (environments in which the product can be degradable + specific product name); product specification; materials, etc.
² Graphical label
Graphical labels are comprised of two parts, as shown below.
The upper part is a logo which calls for public efforts to protect the environment, and the lower part includes texts illustrating materials, environments in which the product can be degradable, national standards, product name, etc.
The size of a label is basically determined based on that of the product. The label should appear on the bottom, outside or other prominent locations on the product. It can be indicated on the outer packaging of the product, if the label cannot appear on the product because of functions or designs. Moreover, it should also be specified in product descriptions.
According to the Guidance, the label is preferably of green color (R73 G106 B1). Where it is not feasible to use green, other suitable colors (primarily black and white) or the color of the product can be used as well.
