Washington’s Compostable Product Labeling Law 

July 1, 2024

Summary

Washington’s Compostable Product Labeling Law was enacted as part of the state’s broader Organics Management Law and began enforcement on July 1, 2024. This law regulates how compostable products are labeled and marketed in Washington to prevent greenwashing and contamination of composting systems. It requires that compostable products display a third-party certification logo, use a color signal (green, beige, or brown), and clearly state the word “compostable” on the product. The law also prohibits misleading environmental claims such as “biodegradable” or “eco-friendly” unless they meet specific standards.

Share This Page

Additional Information

Sustainability Legislation & Regulation Monitor

Monitoring legal, regulatory and policy developments across Sustainability issues across the United States and beyond.

© 2025 Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld LLP. All rights reserved. Attorney advertising. This document is distributed for informational use only; it does not constitute legal advice and should not be used as such. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Akin is the practicing name of Akin Gump LLP, a New York limited liability partnership authorized and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority under number 267321. A list of the partners is available for inspection at Eighth Floor, Ten Bishops Square, London E1 6EG. For more information about Akin Gump LLP, Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld LLP and other associated entities under which the Akin Gump network operates worldwide, please see our Legal Notices page.