Regulations & Standards for Biodegradable Confetti: A Complete Guide for Eco-Friendly Use

Biodegradable confetti is a go-to choice for eco-conscious event planners, but its production, labeling, and use are governed by a set of global standards and regional regulations. These rules ensure that "biodegradable" claims are not just marketing buzzwords, but backed by real environmental performance.

Core Global Standards for Biodegradable Confetti Materials

Two primary standards set the bar for compostable and biodegradable confetti materials. The EU’s EN 13432 requires that materials (like PLA plastic or coated paper confetti) achieve 90% biodegradation within 6 months, leave no toxic residues, and fully disintegrate in 12 weeks. In the United States, ASTM D6400 sets similar criteria for industrial compostable plastics, mandating complete biodegradation in 180 days and strict limits on heavy metal content.

For paper-based confetti, the FSC Certification ensures the paper comes from sustainably managed forests, preventing deforestation. Globally, ISO 17088 aligns with these standards for compostable plastics, requiring at least 90% relative biodegradation and no ecotoxicity. In China, the GB/T 41010-2021 standard governs all biodegradable products, including confetti, with clear rules on biodegradation rates and labeling.

Regional Regulations You Need to Know

European Union (EU)

The EU’s Single-Use Plastics Directive (SUPD) bans non-biodegradable loose confetti in many areas and mandates EN 13432 compliance for any compostable claims. The Green Claims Directive goes a step further, prohibiting unsubstantiated "biodegradable" marketing—brands must provide test data to prove decomposition timelines. Local venue rules in countries like the UK and France often require FSC-certified paper or EN 13432-compliant PLA for outdoor events.

United States (US)

The FTC Green Guides are a key rulebook: it’s deceptive to label confetti as "biodegradable" for landfill use unless it decomposes within 1 year. ASTM D6400 or D6868 (for coated paper) certification is mandatory for "compostable" labeling. At the state level, places like California restrict non-biodegradable confetti in public parks and beaches.

China & Other Regions

China’s Plastic Pollution Control Regulation restricts non-biodegradable confetti in public spaces and enforces GB/T 41010-2021 labeling requirements. Australia and New Zealand follow AS 4736 (equivalent to EN 13432) for compostable claims, while Canada aligns with ASTM D6400 and bans false marketing under the Competition Act.

Key Compliance Rules for Manufacturers & Brands

• Avoid vague claims: Always specify the decomposition environment—e.g., "industrial compostable (EN 13432)" instead of just "biodegradable." PLA confetti only degrades quickly in industrial compost, not natural outdoor settings.

• Clear labeling: Disclose the material (100% rice paper, PLA corn starch), compliance standard, and disposal instructions (e.g., "do not litter in water bodies").

• Safe additives: Dyes, glitter, or coatings must meet heavy metal limits in EN 13432/ASTM D6400 to prevent soil or water contamination.

Q&A: Common Compliance Questions About Biodegradable Confetti

Q: Can I label PLA confetti as "home compostable"?

A: No. PLA requires high-temperature industrial composting to decompose quickly. Labeling it as home compostable violates EU and US regulations.

Q: Do natural fiber confetti (flower petals, dried leaves) need certification?

A: Natural fiber confetti doesn’t need compostability certification, but if you market it as "sustainable," you must ensure it’s free of toxic pesticides or additives.

Q: Are there restrictions on using biodegradable confetti near water?

A: Yes. Even compliant confetti can disrupt aquatic ecosystems before decomposing. The EU SUPD and US EPA guidelines restrict confetti use near lakes, rivers, and oceans.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

1. PLA misconception: Don’t assume PLA confetti decomposes quickly in gardens—industrial composting is a must for compliance.

2. Overlooking local rules: Venues may have stricter requirements than national laws (e.g., FSC-certified paper only for outdoor weddings).

3. False advertising risks: Without test reports (EN 13432/ASTM D6400), your "biodegradable" claims could lead to fines.