The USDA BioPreferred® Program

About USDA BioPreferred® Program

The goal of the BioPreferred® program is to increase the purchase and use of biobased products and to spur economic development, create new jobs and provide new markets for farm commodities. The increased development, purchase, and use of biobased products reduces our nation’s reliance on petroleum, increases the use of renewable agricultural resources, and contributes to reducing adverse environmental and health impacts.

The two major parts of the program are:

  • mandatory purchasing requirements for Federal agencies and their contractors;
  • a voluntary product certification and labeling initiative.

Performance and Innovation

Pallet performance matters and USDA recognizes the Pallet Design System™ (PDS) innovative approach.

  • PDS is the only product that evaluates wood pallet strength, stiffness and durability.
  • PDS’ innovative approach is the result of 30 years of rigorous engineering and creates a better performing pallet that is good for the environment, lasts longer, is lighter weight and uses less materials.

We’re proud to have USDA recognize PDS and the role it plays in wood pallet design and durability. If you are a licensee of PDS, then you participate in the USDA BioPreferred® program and your shipping pallets are USDA Certified Biobased products. Request download of the USDA Certified Biobased Product label.

NWPCA members with questions about the program or details about how to use the USDA BioPreferred® label should contact Jason Ortega, Vice President of Public Affairs at 703-519-6104.

The Pallet Design System™ (PDS) is the proprietary software program of the National Wooden Pallet & Container Association and is federally registered with the U.S. Copyright Office. Pallet Design System™ is a trademark of the National Wooden Pallet & Container Association.

CONTACT OUR TEAM

National Wooden Pallet & Container Association
225 Reinekers Lane, #560
Alexandria, VA  22314   USA
Phone: 703-519-6104

Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM ET
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