The real question is: Does composting matter, and how can corporations make a meaningful difference?
Take apples as an everyday example. The volume of fresh fruit consumed in corporate breakrooms and homes is staggering. According to an estimate by Petra Kuppinger in the Chicago Tribune, if just half of discarded apple cores were composted instead of thrown in the trash, it would prevent 12,500 tons of methane gas from entering our atmosphere.
Composting organic waste turns routine food scraps into nutrient-rich soil—simultaneously improving soil health, diverting waste, and protecting our climate. According to a major University in NC, 63% of material sent to the landfill from their Student Union could’ve instead been recycled or composted. (Local Education News)
The Scale of Food Waste
- Massive Waste, Minimal Composting: According to the EPA, 66.2 million tons of wasted food were generated across U.S. food retail, food service, and residential sectors in 2019. Only 5% was composted.
- Organic Waste Dominating Landfills: Food is the single most common material sent to U.S. landfills, comprising 24.1% of municipal solid waste. When combined with yard trimmings, wood, and paper products, organic materials account for 51.4% of total landfill volume—all of which could be composted.
- Driving Methane Emissions: When organic matter decomposes in oxygen-deprived (anaerobic) landfills, bacteria generate methane—a greenhouse gas significantly more potent than carbon dioxide. Landfills represent the third-largest source of human-related methane emissions in the U.S. (14% in 2022).
Why Composting Works
- Reduces Methane: Diverting organic waste stops oxygen-starved rotting and curbs harmful greenhouse gas production.
- Sequesters Carbon: Applying compost restores soil health, allowing ground ecosystems to pull carbon dioxide from the air and store it safely.
- Saves Landfill Capacity: Diverting waste extends the lifespan of municipal infrastructure.
- Nourishes Soil & Plants: Compost enriches soil with natural nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium—reducing dependence on synthetic fertilizers while improving water retention in sandy soils and drainage in clay soils.
How Your Organization Can Get Involved
Composting can be successful in the workplace! Several of our clients have maintained ‘Zero Waste” for years. They compost all their food waste and only use compostable dinnerware. Ideas and Tips:
- Establish a committee or subcommittee from the EHS Committee to Assist.
- Research Options to collect food scraps and where to drop off food scraps.
- Breakroom Compost Stations: Install dedicated organics bins alongside standard recycling in office kitchens and cafeterias.
- Commercial Organics Hauling: Partner with local waste management vendors to collect facility food scraps and other compostable waste. Often these services return with beautiful soil to be shared with all employees.
- Employee Education: Offer simple guidance on what materials are compostable to minimize bin contamination.
- Encourage Employees to compost at home: Provide resources and education through your EHS and Wellness programs.
- Reflect and Celebrate: Acknowledge and recognize the difference you are making in your community and for the world!
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