At Normec OWS, we perform Carbon Footprint (CFP) studies as an application of the Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) methodology that focuses specifically on the climate change impact category. While an LCA analyses the impact of a product or service on various (environmental) impact categories, a CFP study determines specifically the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions generated at product or service level.
Normec OWS offers CFP studies in compliance with the internationally recognized standards, such as ISO 14067 and PAS 2050. ISO 14067 is specifically developed for CFP, while PAS 2050 is required for certification under the PAS 2060 Carbon Neutrality Standard. Which standard to follow depends on the label or certification scheme you wish. Our CFP studies therefore provide you with the necessary scientific baseline on the road to decreasing your greenhouse gas emissions.
The CFP results can be used for managing and reporting GHG emissions, developing ways of reducing the impact of organizational activities, products or services, and for entering carbon footprint or carbon neutral certification schemes offered by other companies. While the CFP produced can be used in other parties’ certification schemes, Normec OWS itself does not perform any certification or issue any kind of label.
Yes, we are recognized by DIN CERTCO in line with ISO 17025. This accreditation covers all test procedures and standards with regard to compostability and biodegradation. Additionally, we are ISO 17025 accredited by BELAC for our compost analyses and also recognized by TÜV Austria. Normec OWS is also ISO 17020 accredited for inspection services and ISO 14001 approved for environmental management. View our recognitions & certificates.
Our main offices are located in Ghent, Belgium. We also have a subsidiary located in Kettering, Ohio to serve the needs of our American customers.
Testing duration depends on the specific type of test and the product itself. This can range from a couple of weeks for material characteristics testing, to months or even years for biodegradation testing. As these are microbial processes, we cannot predict the exact duration beforehand.
