Composting 101 for DC Residents

Did you know that over 414 tons of food waste could end up in landfills each year if not properly diverted in the DC metro area? Fortunately, the District is taking significant steps to combat this issue through composting and other waste reduction strategies. With a population of over 700,000, the city’s commitment to Zero Waste goals is stronger than ever, aiming to divert 80% of solid waste away from landfills by 2032. If you’re a DC resident looking to do your part, here’s everything you need to know about composting in the nation’s capital.

Why does composting matter?

Composting is a key component of DC’s Zero Waste initiative. By turning food scraps into valuable compost, we can significantly reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills, decrease greenhouse gas emissions, and contribute to healthier soil in our community. The city’s leadership has been proactive in ensuring that both businesses and residents have the tools and resources they need to participate in this eco-friendly practice.

What are the new laws?

As of 2023, new legislation requires certain retail food stores and educational institutions in DC to separate and divert their food scraps from other waste. This law is part of a broader effort to ensure that food waste is reduced, reused, or composted rather than discarded. By 2024, these requirements will expand to include even more entities, such as large retail chains, arenas, hospitals, and smaller colleges with residential students.

The goal? To minimize the amount of food waste produced and ensure that any excess food is either donated to those in need or composted if it’s no longer safe to eat.

What are my options?

DC residents aren’t left out of the composting movement. The District has made it easier than ever for households to get involved:

  • Food Waste Drop-off Program: The city has established a Food Waste Drop-off Program at designated farmers markets across DC, allowing residents to drop off food scraps for composting at no cost. This is an excellent option if you don’t have space for a compost bin at home.

  • Curbside Composting Pilot Program: In September 2023, the Department of Public Works’ Office of Waste Diversion launched a curbside composting pilot program with over 9,000 participants. If you missed the sign-up, don’t worry—DC is continually working on new initiatives to expand composting opportunities for residents.

How do I get started?

Ready to start composting at home? Here’s a quick guide:

  1. Get a Compost Bin: Choose a compost bin that fits your space. You can start small with a countertop bin or go larger with a backyard compost pile.

  2. Know What to Compost: Compostable materials include fruit and vegetable scraps, coffee grounds, eggshells, yard waste, and even paper towels. Avoid adding meat, dairy, oils, and non-biodegradable items.

  3. Maintain Your Compost: Turn your compost regularly to aerate it and speed up the decomposition process. Make sure your compost has a good mix of "greens" (like fruit scraps) and "browns" (like leaves and paper) to keep it balanced.

  4. Use Your Compost: Once your compost has broken down into rich, dark soil, it’s ready to use! Apply it to your garden beds, potted plants, or lawn to enrich the soil and promote healthy plant growth.

Supporting DC’s Zero Waste Goals

By composting your food scraps, you’re directly contributing to DC’s Zero Waste goals and helping to create a greener, more sustainable city. The city is committed to tracking progress through annual reports and continually refining its waste reduction strategies. Whether you’re using the drop-off program, participating in curbside collection, or composting at home, every bit helps in reducing waste and making DC a leader in sustainability.

Get Involved

If you’re looking to get started or expand your composting efforts, there are plenty of resources available through Zero Waste DC. Stay informed, follow local guidelines, and don’t hesitate to reach out to community programs like Compost Crew, which works with businesses and organizations across the DC metro area to manage food waste effectively. You can also reach out to local waste management companies — like us! — to guide you through the process of optimizing the waste system in your home or business. Shoot us an email to learn more.

Together, we can turn food waste into a valuable resource and help DC reach its ambitious Zero Waste goals. Happy composting!

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