How Your ERP System Can Track Biodegradable Construction Products and Availability
As demand rises for eco-conscious building materials, distributors are expanding their catalogs to include biodegradable construction products—items that break down naturally at the end of their lifecycle and reduce environmental impact. But managing these specialized SKUs requires more than warehouse space—it requires smart tracking, documentation, and visibility.
In this blog, we’ll explore how your ERP system can be configured to track biodegradable product availability, manage certifications, and support smarter selling.
🌿 What Are Biodegradable Construction Products?
These materials are designed to decompose under natural conditions, leaving minimal or no harmful residues. Common examples include:
Biodegradable erosion control mats
Natural fiber insulation (cotton, hemp, wool)
Lime-based or clay plasters
Bio-resin panels or composites
Compostable packaging and shipping materials
These products are particularly relevant in LEED projects, temporary construction, and green landscaping.
🛠️ How ERP Helps Manage Biodegradable Product Inventory
✅ 1. Tagging SKUs by Material Type and Lifecycle
Use custom fields in your ERP to:
Mark products as “Biodegradable”
Note expected decomposition time
Flag end-of-life handling instructions
These tags make it easier for sales reps to filter and promote green alternatives quickly.
✅ 2. Tracking Expiry or Performance Windows
Some biodegradable products, like organic insulation or erosion mats, have performance windows based on exposure to elements. Use your ERP to:
Set shelf-life alerts
Auto-flag nearing-expiry stock for promotion or discount
Update storage instructions by SKU
✅ 3. Storing Certification and Spec Data
Attach documents like:
Biodegradability test results
Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS)
Eco-label certifications (Cradle-to-Cradle, USDA BioPreferred, etc.)
This allows you to generate documentation instantly for customers, especially for compliance-heavy projects.
✅ 4. Forecasting and Reordering Smarter
Use demand forecasting tools in your ERP to:
Identify seasonal or regional spikes (e.g., erosion control products in rainy seasons)
Avoid overstocking items with short shelf life
Bundle biodegradable products with complementary eco-materials
✅ Final Thoughts
Biodegradable products are fast becoming a key category in green construction. With your ERP system configured properly, you can track, promote, and manage these SKUs efficiently, supporting sustainability goals while meeting customer demand for next-gen materials.
