With a growing number of compostable products, such as food service ware as well as packaging, there has been a considerable increase in consumer confusion. Unfortunately, this confusion has led to the contamination of both recycling and also organic streams. The result- products that degrade end up being discarded as regular trash.
There are certain states that have implemented truth in labelling laws. The organisations cited state labelling laws that are in force in Colorado, California, Maryland, Minnesota, as well as Washington as instances of policies that have been prompted by and also include some of these principles.
Stakeholders who are involved in packaging and composting frequently voice concerns about the fragmented policies across the United States. This situation poses immense challenges for producers, processors, and also consumers, as it hampers clarity as well as compliance.
The push by USCC and BPI aligns with the Federal Trade Commission’s consideration of updating the Green Guides, which go on to provide non-binding advice for environmental marketing claims. The FTC and commenters have acknowledged that compostability claims are a vital element that requires enhancement in the upcoming update.
According to the principles of USCC and BPI, compostable products should be labelled with different colours, striping, as well as certification logos. The task force believes that compostability should be defined based on the present third-party ASTM standards. Additionally, they suggest considering a product as compostable if it is made entirely from wood or fibre.
Recommendations apply to both compostable as well as non-compostable products equally. The task force suggests that non-compostable items should be banned from using labels that are identical to those used in the case of compostable products, as well as any deceptive terminology. For instance, it suggests that products that are not compostable should not be allowed to have green, brown, or beige colours.
The groups advocate for mandatory lab testing for items that are classified as compostable, while demonstrating that field testing for breakdown must be encouraged.
In a statement, Frank Franciosi, the executive director of the US Composting Council, emphasised the significance of having representative opinions at the table so as to guarantee that the principles accurately reflect the actual circumstances and decisions that compost manufacturers face. They hope that product manufacturers, brands, and regulators will promptly and willingly embrace these principles.
In the same announcement, Rhodes Yepsen, the executive director of BPI, stated that with the surge in the number of compostable products, their organisations’ goal is to influence policies that address pollution by way of conventional packaging. They also aim to enhance belief in recognising certified compostable products, which is critical for the success of both compostable product manufacturers as well as composters.