Small/Medium-Scale Composting Infrastructure

Diverting food waste from the landfill is an important way to reduce carbon emissions. The US EPA has determined 58% of methane emissions from municipal solid waste landfills are caused by food waste. Creating small-scale composting infrastructure (< 500 Sq. Ft) allows for processing food scraps and compost creation in multiple locations, and while overseen for Health Department compliance, does not require licensure from the state. Utilizing a variety of composting efforts allows for the most flexibility in scaling compost production for the Cincinnati MSA.

Food Waste diversion and creating compost also increases access to compost for agricultural producers, limits the reliance on fertilizer, improves soil quality, encourages waste management and permaculture business development, and increases rainwater absorption.