Washington § 70A.455.040 - Requirements for a product labeled "compostable."

Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 70A.455.040 — Requirements for a product labeled "compostable.", with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 70A.455.040. Requirements for a product labeled "compostable."

(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:
(a) ASTM standard specification D6400;
(b) ASTM standard specification D6868;
(c) ASTM standard specification D8410;
(d) ISO standard specification 17088;
(e) EN standard specification 13432;
(f) A standard specification that is substantially similar to those provided in (a) through (e) of this subsection, as determined by the department; or
(g) Be comprised only of wood, which includes renewable wood, or a fiber-based substrate that contains:
(i) Greater than 98 percent fiber by dry weight; and
(ii) No plastic, plastic polymer or wax additives, or plastic or wax coatings.
(2) A product described in subsection (1)(a) through (f) of this section must:
(a) Meet labeling requirements established under the United States federal trade commission's guides; and
(b) Feature labeling that:
(i) Meets industry standards for being distinguishable upon quick inspection in both public sorting areas and in processing facilities;
(ii) Uses a logo indicating the product has been certified by a recognized third-party independent verification body as meeting the applicable standard specification;
(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
(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.

Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 70A.455.040

What does Revised Code of Washington § 70A.455.040 cover?

Section 70A.455.040 ("Requirements for a product labeled "compostable."") is part of the Revised Code of Washington, the codified statutory law of Washington. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Washington § 70A.455.040?

A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 70A.455.040" (Washington). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Washington law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Washington official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Washington attorney.

How does Washington § 70A.455.040 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Washington can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

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