Reuse
When organic materials are broken down through decomposition they can be reused to make compost or energy.
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​​(EPA) In 2018 only 4.1% of food waste produced in the US was used to make compost.
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When cities and businesses choose to reuse organic materials, they can save money on landfill fees. Middlebury College in VT saved $100,000 in disposal fees in 2011 by separating organic materials. (EPA)
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Anaerobic digestion is a natural process where micro-organisms break down organic materials without oxygen. This process creates methane (biogas) that can be used to make electricity, heat, vehicle fuel, and natural gas.
5 Easy Ways I Can REUSE Organic Materials!
1. Save your food scraps
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Put food scraps in a container to be composted later. You can put them in the freezer or counter container before putting them into your Commonwealth Sustainability 5 gallon bucket
2. Use fallen leaves as a mulch
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Instead of bagging up your leaves in the fall, shred them with a lawn mower and place them in garden beds or just keep them on your lawn! The leaves will suppress weeds and add nutrients to the soil as they slowly break down.
3. Regrow uneaten vegetables
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Instead of throwing away your old potatoes, onions and celery you can let them sprout and replant them in your garden for a new harvest!
4. Reuse old newspaper or plain cardboard for mulch
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Newspaper and plain cardboard work great as a natural mulch to prevent weeds and help soil contain moisture. They will also breakdown and add nutrients to your soil.
5. Reuse plastic bottles
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Get creative! Make a flower pot out of a plastic bottle.
