Sustainability has become a core expectation across modern industries. As this shift continues, the importance of clear, accurate environmental claims is greater than ever. In the corrosion prevention sector, discussions around biodegradable and compostable packaging are increasing, and with them, the risk of misunderstanding or misapplying scientific terms. Many people call this greenwashing, using environmental claims without clear or sufficient evidence.
At NTIC/ZERUST®, we believe transparency and scientific validation should be the foundation of sustainability efforts. That’s why we’re examining how companies present claims in VCI packaging and exploring ways our industry can build trust and accountability.
Sustainability claims should rely on clear science and transparent data. Therefore, ZERUST® focuses on verified environmental practices that help companies reduce waste and avoid greenwashing. Explore our sustainable VCI solutions and learn how corrosion protection can support responsible environmental goals.
The U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) provides specific guidance on how “biodegradable” claims should be used. To meet these criteria, a product must break down into natural elements within one year after typical disposal. However, many landfills are anaerobic environments, meaning they lack oxygen and the microbial conditions necessary for effective biodegradation, even for organic materials like food waste.
Some companies cite test methods like ASTM D5511 and ASTM D5526 to support their biodegradability claims. While these methods simulate decomposition under controlled conditions, they do not pass/fail certification standards and do not always reflect real-world landfill performance. In fact, ASTM withdrew D5526 in 2025 due to concerns about outdated assumptions and frequent misinterpretation.
Using data correctly and reporting clearly helps avoid confusion and ensures claims reflect real environmental results.
At NTIC, we focus on third-party-verified data and recognized standards. TÜV Austria certified our ZERUST® Natur-VCI® film as 100% compostable, meeting internationally respected specifications, including ASTM D6400 and EN 13432. It also passes the NACE TM0208 standard for VCI performance, confirming that sustainability and effective corrosion protection can go hand in hand.
We designed Natur-VCI® to biodegrade in industrial composting environments without releasing toxic residue or microplastics, offering users a reliable and environmentally responsible solution.
Companies must support sustainability claims with verified data to avoid greenwashing. Therefore, ZERUST® Natur-VCI® film combines certified compostability with proven corrosion protection performance. Explore how this technology helps protect metal while supporting responsible environmental practices.
Compostable films offer significant promise. However, these films don’t work for every application. These materials can carry higher costs and often have a shorter shelf life than traditional polyethylene films. In the U.S., most composting facilities process only food-related waste and accept packaging only if it is fully compostable. Otherwise, it may still end up in landfills, despite best intentions.
To address these limitations, we also offer the ZeCycle recycling program. This initiative reintegrates used ZERUST® films into new ZERUST® ICT®510-PCR30 Post-Consumer Recycled (PCR) VCI Films, helping close the loop through circular packaging solutions.
At NTIC, we communicate our environmental practices honestly and base them on scientific evidence. Buzzwords can be tempting. But true sustainability depends on facts, transparency, and understanding a product’s full lifecycle.
We invite you to explore how our approach avoids greenwashing and promotes long-term environmental responsibility.
Click here to read our full technical response and learn more about how we approach sustainability with integrity and care, avoiding greenwashing through verified science.
Clear environmental claims help companies avoid greenwashing and build trust with customers. Therefore, the ZERUST® team supports businesses with verified corrosion prevention technologies and transparent sustainability practices. Contact us today to discuss solutions that protect metal assets while supporting responsible environmental goals.
Tom White is the Marketing Manager at ZERUST®, bringing almost a decade of expertise in Vapor Corrosion Inhibitor (VCI) technologies and corrosion prevention solutions. He leads strategic marketing initiatives that showcase ZERUST®’s global product portfolio, from sustainable VCI packaging films to advanced rust preventatives and cleaners. Tom is deeply involved in product launches, trade show planning, digital marketing, and customer engagement, ensuring that ZERUST®’s innovative solutions reach the right industries and decision-makers. With a strong focus on aligning technical expertise with customer needs, he helps drive the brand’s growth and strengthen its position as a leader in corrosion protection worldwide.
ICT®510-PCR30 Post-Consumer Recycled (PCR) VCI Film is a 30% recycled polyethylene film containing proven ZERUST® Vapor Corrosion Inhibitors (VCI), providing cost-effective and versatile protection against corrosion damage for metals in shipping and storage.
The Natur-VCI® series is an internationally certified, fully biodegradable, and compostable packaging material designed to protect against corrosion damage for metals in shipping, storage, and work-in-progress.
