Organics & Composting

Overview

Food waste is a huge issue in Canada and around the world. When we throw away food, it can produce greenhouse gases, like methane, and represents a huge waste in resources. Not only is the discarded food wasted, but so are the valuable resources needed to produce that food, like soil, water, time and energy.

Composting leftover food is a good option but reducing food waste is better – for both the environment, and our bank accounts. We can all do our part to reduce the amount of food wasted by planning meals, cooking with leftovers and shopping with a list.

With that said, there’s always going to be some organic waste created from food. When disposing of organic waste, make sure it’s done right. That’s where composting comes in.

The Impact

Composting is a natural process through which organic material is converted into a soil-like product called compost or humus (pronounced "hue-mous"). Composting can occur at an individual scale, with options like backyard composting, or at an industrial scale, through programs like municipal green cart collection.

Your Role

In Nova Scotia, over 95% of households have access to municipal green cart collection for food and yard waste. The remaining households use backyard composters.

To reduce waste, we need everyone to compost however they can. Make the most of your green cart program and know your region’s compost guidelines. You can also take advantage of composting right in your own backyard, and improve the health and beauty of your garden or lawn with the product you produce.