The Easy Guide to Composting Organic Waste in Greater Vancouver

Composting is a fantastic way to reduce waste, enrich your soil, and contribute to a more sustainable future. In this blog post, we'll walk you through the basics of composting and provide helpful tips to ensure you're composting in line with BC's regulations. Let's dive in!

1. Understanding Composting in BC
   Composting is not only an eco-friendly practice but also an important part of waste management in British Columbia. Familiarize yourself with the regulations and guidelines set by local authorities to ensure you're composting responsibly and within the legal framework.

2. Selecting the Right Composting System
   Choose a composting system that suits your space and needs. Whether it's a backyard compost bin, worm composting (vermicomposting), a compost tumbler or just contributing to the local city compost there are options for every home. Consider factors like available space, convenience, and the type of organic waste you generate.

3. Organic Waste to Compost
   Identify the types of organic waste suitable for composting. Fruit and vegetable scraps, coffee grounds, tea leaves, eggshells, yard waste, and non-glossy paper products can typically be composted in any home or commercial compost facility. However, it's crucial to avoid adding meat, dairy, oily foods, and pet waste to your backyard compost bin here in the city as they can attract pests or introduce harmful bacteria. Meats, bones and other food waste can however be added to your commercial city compost (again check your area’s restrictions as they vary between regions)

4. Creating the Perfect Compost
   Master the art of layering your compost pile. Alternate green materials (kitchen scraps) with brown materials (dried leaves, twigs, shredded paper) to maintain the right balance of carbon and nitrogen. Remember to provide adequate moisture and occasional aeration to facilitate decomposition. Keep diversity in mind when composting, worms love a habitat of diverse materials to break down and the smaller the pieces the quicker they will become dirt!

5. Monitoring and Troubleshooting
   Keep an eye on your compost pile's moisture levels, turning it occasionally to promote proper breakdown. Address any issues that arise, such as foul odors or excessive pests, by adjusting the composting process. Troubleshooting is an essential part of successful composting.

6. Using Your Finished Compost
   Once your compost has transformed into dark, crumbly, and earthy goodness, it's time to reap the rewards! Use the finished compost to enrich your garden soil, improve plant health, and promote sustainable gardening practices. Your plants will thank you for the nutrient-rich boost!

Here are some websites and resources in the Greater Vancouver area that can assist you in finding composting options for your organic waste:

1. City of Vancouver's Green Bin Program: Visit the City of Vancouver's official website to learn about their Green Bin program, which provides curbside collection of organic waste for composting. You can find detailed information on what can be included in the Green Bin and the collection schedule.

2. Metro Vancouver's Recycling Directory: Metro Vancouver offers a comprehensive recycling directory on their website. Use the directory to search for composting facilities, community gardens, or local organizations that accept organic waste for composting.

3. Green Can Program (City of Burnaby): If you reside in Burnaby, check out the Green Can program provided by the City of Burnaby. This program offers a curbside collection of food scraps, yard trimmings, and other organic waste for composting.

4. Richmond Compost Facility: The Richmond Compost Facility is open to residents of Richmond and accepts organic waste for composting. Visit their website for information on drop-off locations, hours, and accepted materials.

5. Community Gardens: Many community gardens in the Greater Vancouver area have composting systems in place. Consider connecting with your local community garden to inquire about composting opportunities or if they accept organic waste for their composting initiatives.

Remember to check the websites or contact the organizations directly for the most up-to-date information on their composting programs and facilities. Note: Please be aware that specific guidelines and programs may vary, so it's essential to verify the details and requirements of each resource before using their services.

Happy composting!