What changes are being proposed to Vermont's Solid Waste Rules, and what could they mean for composters, digesters, haulers, generators, and the broader organics community?

In this June 2026 Compost Conversation webinar, Ben Gauthier of the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) provides an overview of proposed revisions affecting organics management, including new provisions related to depackaging, contamination prevention, load inspection programs, and source-separated food scraps.

Topics discussed include:

• Why the rules are being updated and the connection to Act 170

• Proposed prohibitions on commingling source-separated organics with packaged food

• Mechanical depackaging requirements and operational expectations

• Contamination prevention and emerging concerns such as microplastics and PFAS

• Load inspection programs and state support for education and enforcement • Questions around biosolids, digestate, and imported depackaged materials

• On-farm composting exemptions and alignment with Act 41

• Outreach and guidance needs for generators, haulers, and facilities