As governments and waste systems around the world move toward sustainable materials, compostable packaging has become increasingly important.
In Australia, one of the most important standards used to verify compostable plastics is AS4736.
This certification ensures that plastic products labeled as compostable can safely break down in industrial composting facilities without leaving harmful residues.
Understanding the AS4736 standard is essential for manufacturers, distributors, and brands supplying compostable bags to the Australian market.
For a broader overview of global compostability standards, see our guide to compostable certifications.
What Is AS4736?
AS4736 is the Australian Standard for compostable plastics designed for industrial composting systems.
The full name of the standard is:
AS 4736 – Biodegradable plastics suitable for composting and other microbial treatment.
The standard defines how plastic materials must behave during composting to ensure they break down completely and safely.
To meet AS4736 requirements, materials must:
• biodegrade during composting
• disintegrate physically during the composting process
• leave compost safe for plant growth
• contain limited heavy metal content
These requirements are similar to international standards such as ASTM D6400 and EN13432.
Why AS4736 Certification Matters
Australia has strict environmental policies related to compostable packaging and organic waste collection.
Certification under AS4736 ensures that products can be accepted by commercial composting facilities and waste management programs.
Key benefits include:
Regulatory compliance
Many Australian councils require certified compostable products for food waste collection systems.
Environmental safety
AS4736 ensures that materials break down without contaminating compost with plastic fragments.
Market acceptance
Retailers and waste operators often require certification before accepting compostable packaging products.
Key Requirements of AS4736
To comply with AS4736, materials must pass several technical tests during composting.
Biodegradation
The material must biodegrade into carbon dioxide and biomass within a defined timeframe under industrial composting conditions.
Disintegration
The product must physically break down during composting so that no large plastic fragments remain.
Ecotoxicity
Finished compost containing the material must not negatively affect plant growth.
Heavy Metal Limits
The material must contain very low levels of heavy metals to ensure compost safety.
These requirements ensure that compostable plastics behave similarly to organic waste during composting.
AS4736 vs AS5810
Australia uses two different compostable certification standards depending on the composting environment.
| Standard | Composting Type | Environment |
|---|---|---|
| AS4736 | Industrial composting | Commercial compost facilities |
| AS5810 | Home composting | Backyard compost systems |
AS4736 applies to products designed for industrial composting systems, while AS5810 applies to products that can break down in home compost environments.
You can learn more in our guide to AS5810 compostable certification
AS4736 vs International Compostable Standards
AS4736 is closely aligned with other international compostability standards.
| Standard | Region | Composting Type |
|---|---|---|
| AS4736 | Australia | Industrial |
| ASTM D6400 | United States | Industrial |
| EN13432 | Europe | Industrial |
Because these standards have similar testing criteria, many compostable products are designed to meet multiple certifications.
Learn more about ASTM D6400 compostable standards.
Products That Use AS4736 Certification
Many compostable plastic products designed for the Australian market use AS4736 certification.
Examples include:
• compostable garbage bags
• food waste collection liners
• compostable shopping bags
• compostable packaging films
These products are often used in FOGO waste collection programs and commercial composting systems.
How to Verify AS4736 Certification
When sourcing compostable packaging for Australia, buyers should verify certification carefully.
Important steps include:
Check certification logos
Look for official compostable certification marks indicating compliance with AS4736.
Request certification documents
Manufacturers should provide certification certificates and testing reports.
Confirm certification scope
Ensure the certification applies to the specific product material and application.
Conclusion
AS4736 is the primary compostable plastics certification used in Australia for products designed for industrial composting.
By ensuring plastics biodegrade safely and completely during composting, the standard helps support Australia's transition toward sustainable waste management systems.
For businesses supplying compostable packaging to the Australian market, understanding AS4736 certification is essential for regulatory compliance and environmental responsibility.
