Meet the Normec OWS team of dedicated experts
Sam Deconinck - Business Development Director
With nearly 20 years of experience, Sam Deconinck is a leading expert in biodegradability, compostability, and certification strategies. He serves as Convenor of ISO TC126 WG25, represents Belgium in several ISO working groups, and actively contributes to international certification committees.
Areas of expertise: Certification • REACH • ISO standards • Testing strategies • Environmental claims • Compostability
Nike Mortier - Division Manager Composting, Disintegration & Environmental safety
Nike Mortier is Manager of Disintegration & Environmental Safety at Normec OWS with over 15 years of experience in compostability, disintegration, ecotoxicity, and environmental safety testing. She is the author of several scientific publications, an active member of ISO and CEN working groups, and a recognised expert in end-of-life assessment of materials.
Areas of expertise: Industrial composting • Home composting • Anaerobic digestion • Ecotoxicity • Environmental safety • Disintegration
Lynn Serbruyns - Divsion Manager Biodegradation
Lynn Serbruyns is Division Manager Biodegradation at Normec OWS, specializing in polymer biodegradation, environmental fate, and regulatory biodegradation testing. She is the author of scientific publications and technical whitepapers on biodegradation, the EU Microplastics Regulation, and the EU Fertilising Products Regulation, helping translate complex regulatory requirements into practical testing strategies.
Areas of expertise: Marine, freshwater & soil biodegradation • Polymer persistence • Microplastics • Environmental fate • OECD & ISO testing
Klaus De Potter - Division Manager Analyses
Klaus De Potter is Division Manager Analyses at Normec OWS, specializing in analytical chemistry, laboratory analyses, and method development. With extensive experience in analytical testing and laboratory operations, he supports customers with complex analytical challenges and tailored testing solutions.
Areas of expertise: Chemical analyses • Analytical troubleshooting • Method development • Laboratory techniques
Steven Verstichel - Manager Projects (EU and R&D)
Steven Verstichel is Manager Projects (EU & R&D) at Normec OWS with more than 25 years of experience in biodegradation, compostability, ecotoxicity, and circular economy research. He has authored numerous scientific publications and leads the development and coordination of European R&D and innovation projects.
Areas of expertise: Horizon Europe • Circular economy • EU projects • Biodegradation • Compostability • Innovation
Whitepapers
Expand your knowledge
Stay up to date with the latest developments in sustainability, biodegradability, compostability and legislation and regulations. Our white papers offer practical insights and help you to be well prepared for changes in the market.
European Projects
At Normec OWS, we go beyond testing. As an active partner in European research and innovation projects, we contribute to the development of new scientific knowledge, testing methodologies, and sustainable solutions that help shape the future of biodegradable and compostable materials. By collaborating with leading universities, research institutes, and industry partners, we bridge the gap between research and real world application ensuring that scientific advances translate into practical solutions for our customers and the wider industry.
News
Latest insights
24 Jun 2026
Normec OWS Featured in Inside Sustainability: Partnering for a More Sustainable Future
Normec OWS is honored to be featured in the latest edition of Inside Sustainability. As a global leader in biodegradability and compostability testing, we take pride in offering unparalleled capacity for comprehensive environmental studies and tailored consulting services. This recognition highlights our ongoing commitment to supporting innovative sustainability initiatives worldwide.
24 Jun 2026
Normec OWS Launches Informative Series: Understanding Biodegradation and Sustainability
At Normec OWS, we are excited to introduce a new informative series designed to simplify and explain the science behind biodegradation, compostability, disintegration, and ecotoxicity. This series underscores our commitment to sharing knowledge and supporting businesses on their path to sustainability.
24 Jun 2026
Normec OWS Achieves Recognition for DIN Geprüft Marine Biodegradable Certification Scheme
We are excited to announce that Normec OWS has been recognized by DIN CERTCO for testing in accordance with the DIN Geprüft Marine Biodegradable Certification Scheme. This new certification complements our existing recognition by DIN CERTCO for testing in industrial compostability, home compostability, and soil degradation. With this addition, Normec OWS further strengthens its position as a comprehensive partner in biodegradability and sustainability testing.
24 Jun 2026
Normec OWS Recognized by TÜV AUSTRIA for REAL Certification Testing
Normec OWS is thrilled to announce its recognition by TÜV AUSTRIA Group as a testing laboratory for industrial and home compostability under the REAL (Renewable Energy Assurance Ltd) certification in the UK. This recognition further solidifies our dedication to sustainability and quality assurance.
24 Jun 2026
Normec OWS Partners in the REBIOLUTION Project: Advancing Sustainable Agriculture and Bioplastics
Normec OWS is proud to partner in the REBIOLUTION project, a European initiative uniting nine partners from seven EU countries. Together, we are developing innovative bio-based, biodegradable, and recyclable plastics that address sustainability challenges in the packaging and agricultural markets.
24 Jun 2026
CHAMPION Project Successfully Concludes: Advancing the Bio-Based Economy
After four years of groundbreaking innovation, the CHAMPION Project (Circular High-performance Aza-Michael Polymers as Innovative Materials Originating from Nature) has come to a successful close. This Horizon 2020 BBI JU-funded initiative aimed to replace conventional materials with sustainable bio-based polymers, paving the way for a more eco-friendly future.
24 Jun 2026
Welcoming Gunther Van Cauwenberge as the New Managing Director at Normec OWS
We are thrilled to announce that Gunther Van Cauwenberge has joined Normec OWS as our new Managing Director. Gunther brings extensive leadership experience and a forward-thinking vision to our team. We are confident that his expertise will guide us as we continue to grow, innovate, and deliver success for our clients and partners.