Frequently asked questions

Why compost?

Composting is an environmentally friendly way of disposing of food scraps and all compostable waste. By diverting organic material from the landfill to composting, you reduce the creation of methane. Methane emissions from landfills are a leading contributor to climate change. Composting your food waste also produces a useful product, compost, which is an extremely productive, all natural fertilizer.

What can be composted?

In general, everything that was once alive can be composted. Meats, bones, cheeses, bread, pasta, fruits, vegetables, coffee grounds, and uncoated paper. Whether you’re a business or a homeowner, you’ll get a full list of all the items acceptable in the program.

Do you provide collection containers?

All businesses are provided with lined collection containers that are switched out as part of the service. If you are a residential drop-off customer, you can use any container you may want to, purchase a countertop collection container or bucket from our store once you choose a subscription. Residential curbside collection customers need to pay a one-time fee for their container as part of the service.

Can I compost my paper coffee cup/ to-go container?

Maybe. Many businesses use to-go cups and containers that are certified compostable. In other words, they are not coated with plastic and will break down without leaving a trace when exposed to high temperatures normally found in managed aerobic composting process sometimes referred to as “industrial” or “commercial” composting. Many businesses don’t use certified compostable items, so they must be listed as compostable on the Biodegradable Products Institute website before we can accept them as compostable.

Do you take yard debris?

Depends. We currently take small amounts of herbaceous material without soil and wood material smaller with a diameter that is no more than the size of a pinky. Place items in the drop-off, provided bucket or cart, or occasional paper bag outside your bucket. Herbaceous material is any plant that would normally die to the ground in the winter. Flower clippings, house plants and small amounts of weeds are fine in your collection container. Check with your municipality if you have large amounts of yard debris that you need picked up. Woody material larger than your pinky is compostable and is necessary for successful composting, but we can't take it at this time.

Do you do special events? Or accept materials from special events?

Sorry, but no. Special events are challenging and have many variables that are out of our hands. In order to keep our operations efficient and cost-effective, while maximizing sustainability, we do not do special events or accept materials from special events. Our services focus on the day to day waste reduction for both businesses and households. We feel this offers greater opportunities for ongoing education, as well as a higher environmental impact. Current curbside customers may rent a 35 gallon or 64 gallon roll cart if they anticipate a larger than usual amount of compostable materials.