I can't compost myself. What can I Do?

While backyard composting is a fantastic way to divert food scraps and enrich your garden, it is not always an option for everyone. Limited space, local regulations, or physical limitations can make home composting unfeasible. However, a compost pile in your backyard is not the only way to keep your organic waste out of the landfill.

Even without a personal compost pile, you can still play a vital role in reducing landfill waste and supporting a circular economy. Many communities offer convenient alternatives that make composting accessible to more people.

Here are the primary places to look for ways to responsibly dispose of your food scraps:

Curbside Composting Programs: Many municipalities are now offering curbside collection of organic waste alongside recycling and trash. Check with your local waste management services or city website to see if this service is available in your area. These programs typically accept a wider range of materials than home compost bins, including meat, dairy, and compostable plastics. There is a transportation and fuel impact, and the resulting compost is NOT likely to be applied to your local soil, BUT it does solve the food scraps in the landfill issue.

Community Drop-Off Sites: If curbside pickup is not an option, your community might have designated drop-off locations for food scraps. These can often be found at farmers' markets, community gardens, or dedicated waste facilities. A quick online search for "food scrap drop-off near me" should help you locate nearby options. This may be a local option, but it may also result in waste being trucked around the state. Please confirm with your local provider. Either way, it's not in the landfill.

Private Composting Services: In some areas, private companies offer subscription-based food scrap collection. They provide a bin, pick up your scraps regularly, and ensure they are properly composted. This can be a convenient solution for those seeking a hands-off approach. This is how Purple Bucket Compost started. Local micro-composters keep the scraps close to home and provide the finished product to local gardens.

Local Farms or Gardens: Some local farms or community gardens welcome food scrap donations for their own composting efforts. This is a great way to support local agriculture while diverting your waste. It is always best to contact them first to confirm what they accept and their drop-off procedures, as their rules can vary greatly from site to site. You may also have luck with local ranches, if they compost their manure onsite. They may be looking to add diversity to their compost piles.

By utilizing these resources, you contribute to a healthier planet. Diverting food waste reduces methane emissions from landfills, creates valuable soil amendments, and conserves landfill space. Every scrap diverted makes a difference. Do what you can and Happy Composting!