UPDATE: AB 1972 was signed into law by Governor Schwarzenegger Sep. 27. Thank you for your support.

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger       
State Capitol
Sacramento, CA 95814

RE: AB 1972 – Truthful Environmental Advertising for Compostability – Support

Dear Governor Schwarzenegger:

I/We are writing to urge you to sign AB 1972 (DeSaulnier) into law.

AB 1972 will prohibit manufacturers from making false claims about the biodegradability or compostability of their products.  Misleading environmental claims, such as those for “biodegradability” and “degradability”, cause environmental harm because they provide consumers with the false believe that the packaging is less harmful to the environment when littered.

A plastic bag or container’s ability to biodegrade is a function of both the physical and chemical makeup of the bag as well as the environmental conditions the bag is subjected to.  Studies show that even plastic items designed to compost do not biodegrade in the “natural” environment.  For these reasons, the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) does not have a standard specification for the terms “biodegradable” “degradable” “decomposable” or other nebulous claims.    

This bill will require that only claims that can be verified by testing against an ASTM standard specification, such as a claim for compostability if the product meets the ASTM standard specification for compostability (D-6400), are acceptable.  By requiring that manufacturers be truthful and specific about the end-of-life capabilities of their products we are ensuring that consumers and businesses can make accurate choices and will also create a fair marketplace for plastic manufacturers that are already making truthful claims. I urge your signature on this important measure.

Sincerely,