Since Lawrence Township launched its organic waste collection program back in June, 184 residents have signed up, but they hope more people take advantage of this program.
Program participants conveniently put organics into compostable biobags which they dump into program-supplied 32-gallon carts. Central Jersey Waste collects cart contents weekly and brings it to a specialized facility where it’s broken down to soil. The following is a list of acceptable items:
- Meat, Poultry (bones also) Fish (including shellfish)
- Dairy Products
- Flower & Vegetable Garden Trimmings & Waste
- Houseplants & Flower Bouquets
- Fruits & Nuts (including pits) & Peels
- Vegetables & Vegetable Peels
- Bread, Pasta & Grains
- Liquids & Sauces
- Coffee Grounds & Filters
- Tea Bags
- Spoiled/Expired Foods
- Grass and Leaves
- Weeds
- Branches (2’x4”) or Curbside (preferable)
- Soiled/greasy newspaper
- Soiled/greasy paper
- Paper Plates & Cups/Cardboard Coffee Cups & Holders
- Paper Towels & Napkins
- Paper Food Wrap
- Paper Take-out Containers
- Pizza Boxes
- Egg Shells
- Egg Cartons (non-styrofoam)
- Waxed Cardboard & Waxed Paper
- Plate Scrapings
- Oils, Fats & Butters
- Brown Paper Bags (use to line your collector)
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), organic waste makes up 20-30% of the content dumped in landfills. Besides releasing methane into the atmosphere, a greenhouse gas that is 21 times more damaging than carbon dioxide, the organic waste is going to, well, waste!
Participation cost is $17/month. To sign up and/or learn more about the program click here!
