Evolute® Leads the Way: The First Certified Marine-Biodegradable Filtering Media

SWM Leading the way to sustainable solutions

Concerns about waste and pollution are growing, especially from cigarette butts. So we are taking action now. We are considering that in some cases the filtering media represents 70% of a cigarette butt. While current regulations don’t mandate it, the OK biodegradable MARINE certification reinforces our dedication to a reduced environmental impact. Offering to the market an alternative solution which is biodegradable, dispersible and ecotoxicity- free proves that we’re leading the way in sustainable solutions.

Complying with the Strictest International Standards

All the tests have been conducted by the independent laboratory Organic Waste Systems (OWS) and results have been reviewed by TÜV Austria to ensure they meet the certification criteria. OWS laboratory is specialized in biodegradability, compostability, and ecotoxicity testing. As one of the most reputable laboratories in the field, their expertise ensures accurate, reliable, and scientifically robust testing methodologies. These ensure that our marine-biodegradable filtering media complies with international standards. The ASTM D6691 marine biodegradation test and OECD 202 toxicity assessment for aquatic organisms are demanding standards, validating product safety in sensitive ecosystems.

Biodegradation tests are more challenging in marine environment

The OK biodegradable MARINE certification is significantly more demanding than its OK biodegradable SOIL counterpart. The key differences in testing include shorter biodegradation timeframe. Materials must achieve 90% biodegradation within just 6 months in marine water, compared to 24 months in soil. Another key difference is the requirement that the material must completely disintegrate within 12 weeks under actual seawater exposure. Like Soil certification the ecotoxicity of the material is tested in living organism, two types of seedlings for Soil and the marine certification requires testing on aquatic organisms such as Daphnia (water fleas).Certification under these conditions proves the material’s ability to fully degrade without harming marine ecosystems, setting a much higher standard for environmental safety.

Shaping the Future at International Standardization Organization

SWM international is conducting scientific research to lead the way to more sustainable solutions. The company is actively engaging in International Standardization Organization’s Technical Committee dedicated to tobacco and tobacco products within the Working Group 25 (WG25). ISO WG25 is developing testing standards to determine the aerobic biodegradability of cigarettes filters in soil and marine environment.  Robust standards are key to generate reliable scientific data and facilitate evidence-based decisions. By participating in this working group, SWM contributes to shape the future, ensuring that products meet high-performance benchmarks and environmental goals worldwide.

*100% wood cellulosic fibers, 36gsm/m² and below

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