(Image via GrowNYC)

About 17% of NYC’s waste stream is food.  In lieu of sending this food off to a landfill, New Yorkers have many composting options.  Composting transforms food scraps and other organic waste into a useful product for gardens.  Almost a year ago, GrowNYC teamed up with some of the Greenmarkets to expand current food scrap collections through a pilot program.  The program added to the ongoing Greenmarket food scrap collections by community organizations.  With more drop-off options than before, now is the time to try composting.

How do I participate?

1. Collect food scraps in large yogurt containers or other covered plastic containers.  GrowNYC recommends storing the containers in the refrigerator or freezer to reduce odors and adding a layer of shredded newspaper on the bottom of the container.

2. Fill the container with scraps:

YES: fruits, vegetables, coffee grounds and filters, teabags, egg and nut shells, pits, cut or dried flowers, household plants and potting soil

NO: meat, chicken, fish, greasy food scraps, fat, oil, dairy, dog or cat waste, kitty litter, coal or charcoal, coconuts, diseased and/or insect-infested houseplants/soil or biodegradable/compostable plastics

3. Find your nearest drop-off location and get composting!

Greenmarket composting is reserved for residents; commercial food scraps are not accepted.  However, businesses should contact a food waste hauler if they have organic waste.  Adventurous residents who would like to learn more about composting or composting at home can find information about workshops and guides from GrowNYC.org.

(Via GrowNYC.org/compost)