ASTM International members are working to revise and reinstate a standard (D7081-05, Standard Specification for Non-Floating Biodegradable Plastics in the Marine Environment). The revision – including a name change – will cover products made from plastics (including packaging and coatings) that are designed to be biodegradable in natural seawater.
 
This specification was withdrawn in April 2014 in accordance with ASTM Regulations Governing ASTM Technical Committees (section 10.6.3), which require that standards be updated no later than the eighth year since the last approval date. Subcommittee D20.96 on Environmentally Degradable Plastics and Biobased Products (part of Committee D20 on Plastics) has been continually working to revise and reinstate the standard since before its withdrawal. 

Importantly, ASTM maintains electronic versions of all its standards, including historical and withdrawn standards. Withdrawn standards can be referenced. These standards remain accessible for individual purchase online and through ASTM download subscriptions.

To purchase standards, visit www.astm.org and search by the standard designation, or contact ASTM Customer Relations (tel +1.877.909.ASTM; sales@astm.org).

Media Inquiries: Nathan Osburn, tel +1.610.832.9603; nosburn@astm.org
Technical Contact: Jo Ann Ratto Ross, tel +1.508.233.5315; joann.r.ross.civ@mail.mil
ASTM Staff Contact: Alyson Fick, tel +1.610.832.9710; afick@astm.org

Release #9831

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