TMECC Update: Progress Report & Looking Ahead

The Compost Research & Education Foundation (CREF) continues to make much-needed updates to the Test Methods for the Examination of Composting and Compost (TMECC). We’re excited to share our recent Phase I progress; we have several key updates and current undertakings that we would like to highlight.

We are currently:

• Investigating critical details for standardization and quality control:
  • Expanding ICP-AES protocol details in the phosphorus and potassium chapters.
  • Standardizing and clarifying the drying protocols in the nitrogen chapter.
  • Modernizing the text to update and standardize the now widely-used combustion method for total nitrogen.
• Updating the humic and fulvic acid methods with current understanding of these molecules and better aligning the protocols with those used by the International Humic Substances Society.
• Incorporating reviewer comments into the electrical conductivity chapter.
  • Addressing laboratory feedback and suggestions on current STA methods, including the Phase I updates.
  • Presenting TMECC updates at USCC state chapter meetings to raise awareness of our goals

Phase I updates are set to be complete by January 2026. 

In addition to Phase I updates, we are actively looking forward to the next phase. Phase II updates in 2026 will include review of new methods proposed during Phase I, along with the addition of entirely new chapters covering topics such as persistent herbicides, PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances), and other emerging technologies.

We anticipate that PFAS will require a large part of our resources in Phase II and III. To start preparing, we are already:

• Attending the WEFTEC 2025 conference to meet with experts on PFAS and other emerging contaminants.
• Reaching out to researchers active in PFAS/PFOS on compost research with the aim to develop a research group and apply for research funding.

To follow along with our progress, please visit our website!