How do I know if a particular product I use is compostable and therefore compliant?

By definition in the City's ordinance:

  • COMPOSTABLE shall mean all the materials in the product or package, when composted in an industrial or municipal compost operation, will break down, or otherwise become part of, usable compost (e.g. soil-conditioning material, mulch) in a safe and timely manner. 
  • Compostable food service ware must meet ASTM-Standards for compostability and any bio-plastic or plastic-like product must be clearly labeled, preferably with a color symbol, to allow proper identification such that the collector and processor can easily distinguish the ASTM standard compostable plastic from non-ASTM standard compostable plastic. 
  • Compostable products are considered compostable under this section only if a business establishment or food or grocery establishment using the products is composting them with an industrial or municipal compost operation.

Visit the Charleston County website  for more information on materials accepted for composting and information on how to participate in Charleston County’s Composting Program: https://www.charlestoncounty.org/departments/environmental-management/compost-program.php 

Show All Answers

1. What if an establishment is not following the new rules? How should I report a violator?
2. When did the ordinance go into effect?
3. Who needs to comply with the ordinance?
4. Do these regulations apply to vendors, food trucks, farmers markets, festivals, weddings, etc.?
5. What is the purpose of the Environmentally Acceptable Packaging/ Products ordinance?
6. Where can I find a copy of the full ordinance?
7. What products does the ordinance apply to?
8. Are there any exemptions or products not restricted to begin with?
9. What if I have questions or need additional information?
10. Who do I ask to find out if a particular product I use is recyclable and therefore compliant?
11. What are the types of products that are allowed for use under the ordinance?
12. What type of bag is considered reusable?
13. What is the most environmentally sensitive choice I can make as a business owner or consumer?
14. What should retailers do if they have large stocks of plastic bags that last beyond the January 1, 2020 effective date?
15. I think I have a hardship in complying with this ordinance. What should I do?
16. Is every type of plastic bag prohibited?
17. How do I know if a particular product I use is compostable and therefore compliant?
18. As a customer, can I bring my own single-use plastic carryout bags to the store?
19. Do I have to charge my customers for paper bags?
20. Is there a requirement for recycled content in paper bags?
21. How will this be enforced?
22. Is the City of Charleston coordinating with other local jurisdictions on this?