Biomass Mark

Overview

The Biomass Mark Certification Scheme is an environmental labeling system, operated by the Japan Organics Recycling Association, that evaluates and certifies environmentally friendly products made using biomass, or biologically derived resources. Products confirmed to meet quality and safety requirements are permitted to display the Biomass Mark according to their biomass content, such as a minimum of 10% by dry weight, promoting the development of both a decarbonized and a circular society.

Timeline

August 2006: The Biomass Mark program begins operation.

2015: Certification criteria and the minimum biomass content thresholds are reviewed and adjusted for certain categories.

As of 2024: Adoption is accelerating in coordination with green procurement criteria for products such as bioplastic and biomass-based ink substitutes and packaging materials.

Business Impact

Manufacturers and sellers of bioplastics, biomass-based inks, and paper and wood products can use this certification to quantitatively demonstrate their products' environmental advantages through biomass content. It also functions as a differentiating standard for meeting the green procurement requirements of government agencies and large corporations, and displaying the mark on product packaging can enhance brand value.