RCW 70A.455.040 — Requirements for a product labeled "compostable."

1. (1) A product labeled as "compostable" that is sold, offered for sale, or distributed for use in Washington by a producer must meet at least one of the following equivalent standard specifications:

   1. (a) ASTM standard specification D6400;
   2. (b) ASTM standard specification D6868;
   3. (c) ASTM standard specification D8410;
   4. (d) ISO standard specification 17088;
   5. (e) EN standard specification 13432;
   6. (f) A standard specification that is substantially similar to those provided in (a) through (e) of this subsection, as determined by the department; or

   7. (g) Be comprised only of wood, which includes renewable wood, or a fiber-based substrate that contains:

      1. (i) Greater than 98 percent fiber by dry weight; and
      2. (ii) No plastic, plastic polymer or wax additives, or plastic or wax coatings.

2. (2) A product described in subsection (1)(a) through (f) of this section must:

   1. (a) Meet labeling requirements established under the United States federal trade commission's guides; and

   2. (b) Feature labeling that:

      1. (i) Meets industry standards for being distinguishable upon quick inspection in both public sorting areas and in processing facilities;
      2. (ii) Uses a logo indicating the product has been certified by a recognized third-party independent verification body as meeting the applicable standard specification;
      3. (iii) Displays the word "compostable," where possible, indicating the product has been tested by a recognized third-party independent body and meets the applicable standard specification; and
      4. (iv) Uses green, beige, or brown labeling, color striping, or other green, beige, or brown symbols, colors, tinting, marks, or design patterns that help differentiate compostable items from noncompostable items.

[ 2024 c 341 s 501; 2022 c 180 s 803; 2019 c 265 s 4. Formerly RCW 70.360.040.]

Notes:

Findings—Intent—2024 c 341: See note following RCW 70A.207.040.

Findings—Intent—Scope of authority of chapter 180, Laws of 2022—2022 c 180: See notes following RCW 70A.205.007.