What makes a product compostable?

A product is compostable if it is able to break down within a specific period of time while being processed in a properly managed compost facility. Certified compostable products are certified by either the Biodegradable Products Institute (BPI), the Composters Manufacturing Alliance (CMA), or TUV Austria. Certified compostable products are tested to meet ASTM standards to break down within 180 days in a commercial compost facility. These products will not break down in the same manner in a landfill or other environment. Commercial composting is not available in all areas, and different states have different requirements for composting. Please check locally to ensure you have access to commercial composting before purchasing compostable products. 

To find out more about the process, visit our composting resources page. Looking to find the nearest commercial composter to you? Head to our Find A Composter page.