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1. How does this help the environment?

The program enables organic matter to be returned to the soil instead of being burned in an incinerator and adding to air pollution and/or decomposing as methane, the worst greenhouse gas. Farmers using compost need less chemical fertilizers.

2. Where do the food scraps go?

To a commercial composting facility in upstate NY.

3. Doesn’t the trucking offset the environmental benefits?

Not by a long shot. The CO2 emitted is nothing compared to the savings of methane gas emissions.

4. Where do I get a Starter Kit?

At the New Castle Recycling Center. Or email Composting and an SAB volunteer will deliver one to you. and a Sustainability Advisory Board (SAB)
volunteer will deliver a kit and also answer any questions.

5. What happens when I use up the compostable liners that come with the kit?

Liners are available at the Recycling Center. They cost $2 for the kitchen container and $5 for the transportation container.

6. Where do I keep these containers?

Many people keep the kitchen container under their counter. However, it’s not bad looking and can live on top of the counter too. Keep the Transportation container in the garage.

7. Do I have to use the town kits?

No. Now that the pilot program has been completed, New Castle residents can drop off food scraps as long as they are in compostable liners. Food scraps must also be transported safely so the bag does not break and contaminate the collection area. The kits are recommended.

8. Doesn’t the food smell?

If you leave it too long, yes. The kitchen container has holes in the top so air circulates. The transportation container has a solid locking lid. Most people bring their scraps in once a week with no problems.

9. When can I bring it?

The Recycling Center is officially open Wednesday – Saturday from 7:30am – 2:30pm but usually you can come on Monday or Tuesday as well. On those days there’s a small
chance the gate will be locked.

10. I already compost in my yard. Why should I do this?

The Food Scrap Recovery Program supplements home composting by accepting items (like meat, fish, cheese, etc.) that can’t be composted outside as they will attract unwanted pests. The Food Scrap Recovery Program can safely handle ALL food scraps.