USCC, Composters Submit Comments to National Organic Standards Board

	National Organics Program Seal

In response to a document published by the National Organic Standards Boards’ Crops Subcommittee, the USCC submitted comments focused on questions about compost production for the NOSB’s upcoming meeting from April 29 to May 1 in Milwaukee, WI. The feedback was provided for NOSB questions on production practices for potential organic-use compost, including the advance of technologies since standards were last set; carbon-to-nitrogen ratio, contamination, and inspection practices.

The USCC is arguing that best-practice contamination reduction policies practiced by compost manufacturers currently making product for organic use are significant and protective, and that inspections are unwarranted. In addition, the USCC is proposing that the STA Certified^TM Compost testing program is a useful tool for evaluating compost for organic use with its rigorous tests for metals and pathogens. The USCC also emphasized that the American Association of Plant & Food Control Official's 2018 official definition of compost should be used in the National Organic Program rules. In addition, the USCC is proposing that the STA Certified^TM Compost Testing Program can be a useful tool for evaluating compost for organic use specifically in the testing for metals and pathogens along with the frequency of testing based on compost volumes.

The USCC has not yet taken a position on a request by the Biodegradable Products Institute on the use of compostable packaging as a feedstock in compost for organic agriculture. Current rules bar packaging as a “synthetic” substance. USCC’s board surveyed USCC compost manufacturers and members (see results here) last winter as to whether the organization should support the opening of the NOP rules for discussion of compost issues, but it has not yet decided whether to support use of packaging meeting ASTM standards in compost for organic ag. A final position will be taken in time for the NOSB’s fall meeting after extensive discussion among USCC compost manufacturer members and the STA Advisory Committee, Legislative and Environmental Affairs Committee, and Market Development Committee.

USCC invited compost manufacturers to comment through the Compost Action Center. See comments made here.