The federal definition of compost has been static for decades. In a welcome development, the US Department of Agriculture is reviewing this definition in order to extend it beyond plant and animal materials to include biodegradable packaging and compostable plastics as organic compost feedstock. Revising the federal approach to compostable materials isn't just a semantic exercise but a potentially pivotal moment for the composting and compostable plastics industry. The proposal for a new definition not only recognizes important technological advances, it also signifies a meaningful shift in public perception: Today, composting is no longer a niche activity, it’s an essential part of our nation’s waste reduction system — now and in the future.
What’s happening at the federal level?
The National Organic Standards Board (NOSB) Crops Subcommittee is actively working on a proposal for redefining compost, with plans to finalize and put it through a vote at its fall 2024 meeting. The current federal definition of compost, which has remained unchanged since the 1990s, is "the product of a managed process through which microorganisms break down plant and animal materials into more stable organic substances." While this definition covers basic composting processes, it is outdated. It does not reflect advances in composting technology or the inclusion of bioplastics and compostable plastics. This is what the NOSB’s new definition of compost hopes to change, which could take place as early as winter or spring of next year.
Why does it matter?
The significance of such a proposal to update the federal definition of compost is two-fold. First, it highlights an important shift in public perception, indicating that composting is now accepted as a mainstream practice for waste management in the United States. This leads to the second point — technology. The importance of incorporating advanced technology and contemporary practices into composting processes cannot be overstated. Bringing the federal language up to date ensures that composting regulations stay relevant and provide clear guidelines and standards for today’s compost producers and end-users, who rely on compost to improve agricultural crops and soil.
How is technology changing the composting process?
Innovative technology is already increasing the efficiency of composting processes, as well as the quality of the output itself. For example, modern composting equipment can automatically control critical parameters such as temperature and moisture levels, which significantly speed up decomposition. Smart composting systems use sensors and data analytics to monitor conditions in real time, allowing for precise adjustments to enhance compost quality. Additionally, automated sorting machines can separate compostable materials from non-compostable waste, ensuring a cleaner input stream. The city of San Antonio, TX, for example, currently employs such a system to remove plastics and metal debris from food and garden scraps. Current research is advancing other tech, as well, including systems that incorporate AI to predict and address potential issues, further optimizing the composting process.
Why are compostable plastics part of the conversation?
The integration of compostable plastics into mainstream waste disposal is essential to create and support a circular economy. The use of compostable plastics, which often contain or carry food scraps, drives more food waste to be composted, keeping it out of landfills, thus reducing methane emissions and other environmental pollution. Processing compostable food packaging with food scraps streamlines waste separation and reduces contamination from conventional plastics in compost bins. Compostable plastics also typically replace otherwise hard-to-recycle plastics. And when compostable plastics are treated via composting, they not only support the reduction of plastic ending up in a landfill, but help produce more compost that can be used in soil to support the sequestration of carbon from the atmosphere.
What does it mean for the future?
Changing the federal definition of compost represents a crucial step forward in ensuring that composting remains at the forefront of national policy. By acknowledging modern technologies and recognizing the role of compostable plastics, the new standard will enhance the volume, quality, and speed of composting processes. This is crucial not just for better waste management, but also for improving soil health and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
