Conservation of Cultural Heritage – Waterlogged archaeological wood – Characterization of waterlogged archaeological wood to support decision-making processes for its preservation – EN 18056:2025

EN 18056:2025 is a European standard that focuses on the requirements and guidelines for the design and testing of products made from bio-based materials. This standard is part of the European Union’s broader initiative to promote sustainability and reduce reliance on fossil fuels by encouraging the use of renewable resources in various industries.

Scope of EN 18056:2025

The primary scope of EN 18056:2025 is to establish a comprehensive framework for assessing the performance and sustainability of products made from bio-based materials. This includes a wide range of applications, from packaging and construction materials to consumer goods and automotive components. The standard aims to provide manufacturers, designers, and consumers with clear guidelines on how to evaluate the environmental impacts and performance characteristics of bio-based products.

Key aspects of the standard include:

1. Material Specifications: EN 18056:2025 outlines the types of bio-based materials that can be used in product manufacturing. This includes criteria for the sourcing of raw materials, ensuring that they are derived from renewable resources and produced sustainably.
2. Performance Testing: The standard specifies the testing methods that must be employed to evaluate the performance of bio-based products. This includes assessments of mechanical properties, durability, and resistance to environmental factors, ensuring that these products meet the necessary quality standards for their intended applications.
3. Life Cycle Assessment (LCA): EN 18056:2025 emphasizes the importance of conducting a life cycle assessment to evaluate the environmental impacts of bio-based products throughout their entire life cycle. This includes raw material extraction, production, transportation, usage, and end-of-life disposal or recycling.
4. Sustainability Criteria: The standard establishes specific sustainability criteria that bio-based products must meet to be considered environmentally friendly. These criteria may include factors such as carbon footprint, energy consumption, and waste management practices.
5. User Guidance: EN 18056:2025 provides guidance for manufacturers on how to communicate the sustainability attributes of their products to consumers. This includes recommendations for labeling and marketing bio-based products in a transparent and informative manner.

Updates in EN 18056:2025 Compared to Previous Versions

The 2025 version of EN 18056 introduces several significant updates and revisions compared to earlier iterations of the standard. These updates reflect advancements in sustainability practices and the growing importance of bio-based materials in various industries. Key updates include:

1. Expanded Definition of Bio-based Products: The new version broadens the definition of bio-based products to encompass a wider range of materials and applications. This reflects the increasing diversity of bio-based products available in the market and their potential uses across different sectors.
2. Enhanced Testing Protocols: EN 18056:2025 includes more comprehensive testing protocols for evaluating the performance of bio-based materials. This ensures that products are rigorously tested for quality and reliability, meeting the demands of various applications.
3. Integration of Circular Economy Principles: The 2025 version incorporates principles of the circular economy, emphasizing the importance of resource efficiency and waste reduction. This aligns with broader European policies aimed at promoting sustainable production and consumption patterns.
4. Focus on Environmental Impact Reduction: The standard places a greater emphasis on reducing the environmental impact of bio-based products. This includes updated guidelines for minimizing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable sourcing practices.
5. Stakeholder Engagement: EN 18056:2025 highlights the importance of engaging stakeholders in the development and assessment of bio-based products. This includes input from manufacturers, consumers, and environmental organizations, ensuring that diverse perspectives are considered in evaluating sustainability.

Countries Utilizing EN 18056:2025

EN 18056:2025 is applicable across various European countries, as it is part of the European Standardization framework. Countries such as Germany, France, Italy, and the Netherlands are among the primary users of this standard, given their strong commitment to sustainability and environmental protection. These countries have robust policies promoting the use of bio-based materials and are actively involved in research and development in this area.

In addition to European countries, EN 18056:2025 may also be referenced by international organizations and companies that operate in or supply to the European market. This includes manufacturers from countries outside of Europe who seek to comply with European standards to access this market.

Conclusion

In summary, EN 18056:2025 is a critical standard for assessing the performance and sustainability of products made from bio-based materials. The updates in this version enhance its relevance and applicability, ensuring that stakeholders can make informed decisions regarding the use of bio-based materials. With its widespread adoption across Europe and potential use by international manufacturers, EN 18056:2025 plays a vital role in promoting sustainability and reducing reliance on fossil fuels. As the industry continues to evolve, adherence to this standard will be essential for advancing the use of renewable resources and supporting a more sustainable future.