The US Composting Council’s Seal of Testing Assurance Program, also known as STA, is a disclosure program about compost. It gives information about the testing and labeling of the product. Certified compost has met high-quality standards and is safe and eco-friendly. Below are some aspects you can expect from compost that has been STA-certified. 

STA Certification Requirements

1. The Compost Must Meet the Correct Definition

A material must meet certain requirements to be considered compost. The product must add nutrients or benefits to the soil. It also has to be decomposed so it does not look like the original item.

During the composting process, it needs to have reached high temperatures to lower the risk of spreading harmful pathogens. This also monitors carbon levels and sanitizes the product. 

2. The Process Needs to Follow All Regulations

STA Certification requires that all products follow regulations on environmental impact, citizen impact, and safety. Regulations are monitored at federal, state, and local levels. You can rest assured that certified compost has complied with all these rules. 

Compost also needs to be tested regularly to be certified. Manufacturers are required to use US Composting Council approved labs to do this. These labs are inspected several times a year to ensure consistent quality. 

3. The Product Is Submitted for Regular Testing

Manufacturers of certified compost can only keep their qualifications by having their product tested regularly. This ensures that it consistently meets the high standards of the STA. Samples must be sent to certified labs every one to three months depending on the size of the composting plant. 

4. The Compost Needs to Meet EPA Standards

To ensure an eco-friendly product, the Environmental Protection Agency sets concentration limits for heavy metals in each product. Traces of mercury, arsenic, and other metals are limited to amounts that will not cause harm to the soil or the user. Limits are also set on pathogens, like fecal coliform and salmonella. 

5. Manufacturers Must Sign Multiple Contracts

To create and sell certified compost, manufacturers are required to sign the STA Certified Compost rules contract where they agree to follow all regulations. This contract must be renewed every year. They also agree to pay a yearly fee to the council. 

If you’re interested in purchasing STA-certified compost, visit Fick Supply Service in Wildwood, MO. Since 1994, this company has been providing recycled materials for consumer use. They keep their products environmentally friendly and non-toxic when possible. They also accept a wide range of discarded yard materials to repurpose. Visit them online to learn more or call (636) 532-4978 to speak with a product supplier.