Composting is a form of waste disposal that takes advantage of the natural process by which organic material is broken down to form soil amendment, also known as soil conditioner. Composting is a great way to reduce waste, as it causes tons of garbage to be diverted from landfills. Diverting garbage from landfills is an essential part of the solution to climate issues as it results in a reduction of the amount of harmful greenhouse gases being released into the atmosphere.

What to compost

In 2015, as part of the Green Bin program, the City of Vancouver banned food scraps from landfills. It is now mandatory for these items to be composted. In addition to food scraps, the other items that should be composted are food-soiled paper products and yard trimmings.

So, you can include things such as fruit, vegetable or meat scraps; empty cereal boxes (without plastic liners); slightly soiled paper towels; leaves and grass clippings. You should not include items like large branches, plastic products, or anything soiled with human or animal waste.

How to compost

Now that you know what to compost, how do you go about it in a business setting? With Growing City, it is a simple as putting the items in the bin. We’ll do the rest.

We provide everything you will need, from sleek and durable composting bins to organics collection services.

Will the compost bin smell?

If you were to have any smell from your compost bin, it would be similar to that of a regular bin; however, it is rare that our customers have complaints about odours. We line all compost bins with compostable bags and thoroughly clean them each time we empty the bins to ensure they remain fresh. This also makes it unlikely for you to have issues with flies, maggots, rodents and pests.

If you still have an issue with odour from your compost bin, here are some tips to help mitigate that problem:

• Sprinkle some baking soda in the bin
• Wrap your food-scraps in a compostable bag or in newspaper
• Refrigerate your fruit, meat, fish or bones and clean out your fridge on pick-up day
• Cut flowers are big culprits when it comes to potential smell. Change their water regularly and keep them out of the bin until as close to pick-up day as possible.

If you are planning an office party, pumpkin carving extravaganza, or chicken wing eating contest, it is best that your compost bin is emptied as soon as possible. For that reason, you should include an extra pick-up service in your plans if your activity is not being held close to your regular pick-up day.

Composting with Growing City is as simple, clean and convenient as it gets. By implementing our service, you can responsibly reduce your waste by up to 40% or more, while limiting your contribution to local landfills and making a positive impact on global warming. With several service options—from small to large scale organics collection and recycling services—we have a service that is sure to fit your business needs.

Call us today and let’s work together to make your office an environmentally friendly operation.