The Science and Testing Behind Biowrap’s Technology

At Biowrap, we believe environmental claims should be supported by evidence. That’s why our technology is independently tested and validated using recognised scientific standards.

Biowrap products are engineered to biodegrade in modern bioactive landfill environments — the low-oxygen conditions typically found in active landfill systems.

Our goal is to provide a practical solution that works within the waste systems New Zealand already uses. The technology is designed so that Biowrap plastics remain stable during storage and use, only beginning the biodegradation process once they enter anaerobic landfill conditions.

Biowrap products contain an organic additive that supports microbial activity when the material enters a bioactive landfill environment. Under these conditions, microorganisms can begin to metabolise the plastic material as part of the anaerobic biodegradation process.

If you would like to learn more about the science behind this technology, you can explore the Biowrap eBook, which explains how anaerobic biodegradation works within modern waste-management systems.


Independent Laboratory Testing

Biowrap products are evaluated by independent laboratories using recognised scientific testing methods.

These laboratories simulate anaerobic landfill environments where oxygen is limited and microbial activity can occur. Controlled testing conditions allow researchers to measure biodegradation behaviour and biogas generation over time.

Independent verification helps ensure Biowrap technology performs in line with recognised testing standards and provides transparent data on how the materials behave in landfill-like environments.


Adherence to Global Standards

Biowrap products are tested against internationally recognised standards, including ASTM D5511, which measures the anaerobic biodegradation of plastic materials under high-solids conditions similar to those found in active landfill environments.

During testing, scientists measure the conversion of carbon within the plastic material into biogas under controlled conditions. These measurements provide quantifiable data on anaerobic biodegradation performance.

Biowrap technology is engineered to biodegrade in modern bioactive landfill environments through microbial processes, rather than persisting indefinitely as conventional plastic waste or fragmenting into persistent microplastic particles.


Standards and Supporting Documentation

Biowrap technology is evaluated using recognised international testing standards designed to measure anaerobic biodegradation under controlled laboratory conditions.

Key standards and supporting materials include:

ASTM D5511 – Anaerobic biodegradation of plastic materials under high-solids conditions
• Independent laboratory testing of anaerobic biodegradation performance
• USFDA compliance documentation for food-contact applications

These recognised scientific frameworks provide a consistent method for evaluating how plastic materials behave under anaerobic landfill-like conditions.

For a deeper explanation of the science behind anaerobic biodegradation, explore the Biowrap eBook, which outlines the principles behind the technology and how it relates to modern waste-management systems.


Verified, Measurable Sustainability

Every certification and test we achieve reinforces a single idea — Biowrap relies on science, recognised standards, and transparent testing.

Our products are engineered to biodegrade in modern bioactive landfill environments, helping improve the long-term environmental outcome of plastic materials once they enter landfill systems.

By choosing Biowrap, you’re supporting a more transparent and verifiable approach to improving the lifecycle of plastic packaging materials.