Paper Straw Policy Changes

CMA is committed to finding solutions to contamination in composting through real-world testing and strategies. As part of that strategy, CMA accepts (but does not certify) certain products that may not meet or do not have an applicable ASTM standard. This is part of our Plastic Elimination Strategy. These products include those may not be […]

HB1799

On March 25, 2022, Washington Governor Jay Inslee signed into law HB 17991, a comprehensive organics management bill to reduce methane emissions by supporting programs to divert organic materials from landfills. The bill provides support for edible food capture, access to organics recycling, markets for compost and product labelling to reduce contamination of organics streams. […]

ASTM D34 Sub-Committee Needs Composting, Municipal and Hauling Expertise!

CMA and its network facilities have led the movement to create compostable product field disintegration testing standards since 2017. The genesis of this work was inspired by the leadership of CMA technical advisor, Dr. Kelvin Okamoto, who encouraged CMA to use its extensive experience to lead the efforts within the ASTM International D34 Waste Management […]

Sustainable Holidays

Holiday season is upon us in all its wonder, family tidings, and larger-than-normal consumption habits. It has been estimated that household waste increases over 25% during the holidays. Looking to maximize the joy and minimize your impact? Here are some tips to try out to have a more sustainable and eco-friendlier holiday season.   Get full use out of your foods. Use leftovers for new and creative dishes. Share extras […]

AB1276

Compost Manufacturing Alliance was proud to be one of a broad list of organizations and individuals supporting AB1276 in California.  AB 1276 requires third-party food delivery platforms to list single-use items and provide them only upon request. Some food facilities already ask customers before handing out utensils, straws, and condiments. However, this law will make that a standard practice.   Recently, Governor Newsom signed AB1276 […]

Susan Thoman Writes for Store Brands Viewpoint Blog

A recent Store Brands viewpoint blog features CMA’s Managing Director, Susan Thoman. Read more to gain a better understanding of compostables, certification importance, and steps for retails to have success in acquiring compostable lines.

CMA Completes Cedar Grove’s 100th Field Test!

In August 2021, CMA concluded an historic 100th field test at Cedar Grove Composting’s Seattle area facility. Cedar Grove initiated field testing in 2007 when food scrap collection programs launched residentially and commercially throughout western Washington. After approving certified compostable food service items into their program, Cedar Grove found that a significant volume (meeting ASTM […]

CMA Team Member wins ASTM Scholarship

Alex Thomas, field and special projects lead for the Compost Manufacturing Alliance, and Graduate Research Fellow at the University of Wisconsin, Stevens Point, was just awarded the American Standards and Testing Methods (ASTM) International Graduate Scholarship award. In his work at Stevens Point and CMA, Alex has been actively involved in ASTM, and he chairs […]