The quick answer to this question is that it’s based on your current situation as to how to successfully compost at the office. Some companies have the benefit of outdoor areas but not all do.
Benefits of composting at the office
- Builds brand recognition as an eco-friendly company.
- Increases employee engagement within a company, which can lead to employee retention and satisfaction and increased productivity.
- Can help reduce carbon emissions from food waste heading to the landfill.
1. What can I compost without an outdoor area at my office?
There are options for offices without an outside area to finish the composting job.
Office collection bin: Depending on the size of your office, any sealable container to collect fruit and vegetable scraps can work. It’s suggested that a container be reusable (recyclable) and be made from something that is highly sustainable such as glass. But any sealable container can work, such as a non-recyclable food container.
Things to consider before getting started with collecting this food waste are what should not, and should be, collected and put into the bin. Definitely, no meat scraps should be included in the bin. Come up with a plan on how to train the staff, including internal communications and meetings.
A major consideration by offices must include the plan for the compost. Many avenues are available. Especially for landlocked offices, this should be mapped out because offices with no outdoor space, the composting process can’t be completed using some methods:
- Partnerships: Consider partnering with a local community garden that will pick up the food waste or allow for drop-offs.
- Employees: Employees who have home gardens often seek out sources of compost. Partnering with employees can lead to a reduction of food waste heading to landfill and reduce carbon emissions further by integrating multiple processes: an outside company no longer has to pick up this waste, and an employee, who is already at a physical location, takes the waste home via a trip that would occur either way.
- Food waste companies: Some local trash companies will accept food waste, depending on their programs. Check with your local providers. Additionally, companies that collect this type of waste can be found in some areas across the U.S. Check for local listings.
Tumbler outdoors: For offices that have access to a small area outdoors, a compost tumbler can be purchased and used to finish off your composting process. Again, you need to make a plan on what to do with this compost. Offices can explore sending the compost home with an employee or offer it to a local community garden.
Vermicomposting: Vermicomposting, or earthworm composting, can be done indoors or outdoors. A later post will talk about the ins and outs of this, but it is an option for small offices of all types–even at strip malls or in large office buildings.
The reduction of carbon emissions can help mitigate the effects of climate change, which will have major impacts on the planet and businesses in the future. Thinking sustainably can reduce future impacts and considering a food waste program at the office can be a part of this larger effort.