Compost enriches the earth for plants and other organisms that live in the soil. Over 51% of the trash that goes to landfills is compostable. In a landfill, organic waste contributes to the generation of methane, and what could be a valuable resource is lost. Composting can reduce your household waste by up to 50%, helping to reduce trash disposal costs for both you and the town. Also, your trash bin will smell much cleaner without rotting food! Without the moisture in your trash, you can line your waste bin with a paper bag instead of plastic, keeping many plastic bags from ending up in landfills or in incinerators.

Can I compost at home? Yes! By composting in your own yard, you avoid unnecessary transportation of materials back and forth and add nutrients back into the soil. Read instructions on the basics of composting from the EPA and the Rodale Institute. 

Can I compost if I live in an apartment? Yes! For those without a yard, vermicomposting, or indoor composting with worms, is a space saving option. You can make your own bin or purchase one that has added convenience features through retailers. It is simple to do, and makes a fun science project for kids!

Want to sign up for curbside pick up? Consider using Black Earth Compost, for reliable weekly curbside pickup service of all your food scraps and organics, including food-stained newspaper, flower cuttings, meat, grease, cheese and even bones. See the full list of what you can put in the bin. In the spring you can either receive a voucher for a bag of finished compost, redeemable at participating Garden Centers, or you can donate your compost to Backyard Growers. Businesses, restaurants, schools, and assisted living facilities can use this service too. 

Why Black Earth? Several Sustainable Milton members have used their service and had a good experience. Also, our partners at EnergizeWayland and Green Newton have identified Black Earth as a reliable composting service and they have also been used by the cities of Natick and Newton.