Cutter’s Bill to Set Composting Standards, Reduce Waste Earns Committee Approval

Legislation would prohibit false marketing, “greenwashing” of inorganic products

DENVER, CO – Today, the Senate Business, Labor & Technology Committee approved Senator Lisa Cutter’s, D-Jefferson County, bill to standardize compostable products in Colorado.

SB23-253 would create standards for products that are marketed or represented as being compostable. In order to market products as compostable, the bill would require third-party validation and require labeling distinction, like green or beige labels or symbols. Unless the product is compostable-certified, the bill would make using a composting label or implying such a deceptive trade practice violation. 

"Many Coloradans are working to improve our environment by composting,” said Cutter. “Unfortunately, some companies are 'greenwashing’ their products, which leads to contamination at compost sites, depriving compost businesses of the opportunity to process and sell this valuable organic material. This bill will set standards that make it easier for consumers to understand what is truly compostable, help compost businesses, divert materials from landfills and improve soil health."

SB23-253 is in response to the continued contamination of Colorado’s composting efforts. This is in part due to companies falsely-advertising items like disposable plates and silverware as compostable when those claims don’t hold up in industrial facilities, also known as “greenwashing.” The legislation would create clear standards for products and clarification for customers.

According to Colorado’s largest commercial composting company, 10 percent of organic material coming to their facilities is contaminated due to non-compostable items like dog toys, plastic food containers and bottles.

SB23-253 now heads to the Senate Appropriations Committee. Follow the bill’s progress HERE.