We all eat. As a result, there is some inherent waste to providing three square meals a day. Did you know that up to 40% of household trash is food waste or other compostable items?

This year, consider making food waste reduction a priority. Banana peels, eggshells, coffee grounds and toilet paper tubes—all compostable at home or with a curbside service.

It’s achievable! Everyone can start to reduce some amount of compostable material from ending up in the trash. 

It’s measurable! You’ll start to see the impact right away in terms of how many kitchen trash bags you put in your black trash cart.

It’s good for the planet! No matter how you choose to compost, the end result of that decomposition is nutrient rich earth that can be applied to a lawn or garden, reducing the need for chemical fertilizers.

Three ways to start composting:

1. FREE FOOD WASTE STARTER KITS

Residents who sign up for curbside service with Black Earth Compost can pick up a free starter kits ($34 value) at the DPW Building, 314 Great Rd. Approximately 150 kits are available.

2. REDUCED-PRICE BACKYARD COMPOSTERS AVAILABLE at the DPW—$45 each

3. DROP-OFF FOOD WASTE PILOT PROGRAM

Public Works is looking for 100 residents interested in a drop-off pilot program to divert food waste out of the trash. Interested residents should fill out the online interest form. Priority will be given to residents without backyard space for composting or financial hardship.

Please direct any questions to Liz Antanavica, Refuse & Recycling Administrator, 781-275-7605 x4261.