What is the definition of biodegradable for purposes of the VGP?
Biodegradation is the process whereby organic matter is used by microorganisms, present in the environment, as a food source. Ultimate biodegradation is the level of degradation achieved when an organic compound is totally utilized by aerobic microorganisms. This results in the production of carbon dioxide, water, mineral salts, and biomass. Regarding cleaning products, for purposes of the VGP, EPA considers testing that demonstrates either the removal of 70 percent of dissolved organic carbon, production of 60 percent of the theoretical carbon dioxide, or consumption of 60 percent of the theoretical oxygen demand within 28 days to indicate the cleaning product is biodegradable. Acceptable test methods include: Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development Test Guidelines 301 A-F, 306, and 310, and International Organization for Standardization 14593:1999. For the purposes of the VGP, EPA considers biocidal substances that yield 60 percent of theoretical maximum carbon dioxide
