Commercial Composting Programs for Restaurants: A Guide
Commercial composting programs give restaurants a way to divert significant food waste from landfills while often reducing overall waste disposal costs. Setting one up requires some planning around collection, storage, and staff training. This guide covers the basics of starting a commercial composting program.
How Commercial Composting Programs Work
Most programs involve a dedicated collection bin for food scraps, regular pickup by a composting service, and staff training on what can and can’t go into the compost stream, since contamination can disqualify an entire batch.
Setting Up Collection and Storage
Choose a collection bin location that’s convenient for kitchen staff without creating a pest or odor issue, and confirm your composting service’s pickup frequency matches your kitchen’s food scrap volume.
- Convenient bin location for kitchen staff
- Pickup frequency matched to scrap volume
- Clear signage on what belongs in the compost stream
Staff Training and Contamination Prevention
Contamination from non-compostable items is one of the most common issues with new composting programs, making clear signage and brief staff training essential to keeping the program running smoothly.
Starting a Composting Program
| Step | Focus |
|---|---|
| Choose a provider | Confirm pickup frequency and accepted materials |
| Set up collection | Convenient, pest-resistant bin placement |
| Train staff | Prevent contamination of the compost stream |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does commercial composting save money on waste disposal?
Often yes, since diverting food waste can reduce the volume going to standard trash disposal, though savings vary by provider and location.
What commonly contaminates a restaurant compost stream?
Non-compostable packaging and utensils mixed in with food scraps are among the most common contamination issues.
How often does compost need to be picked up?
This depends on your kitchen’s food scrap volume and should be matched to your composting service’s available pickup schedules.
Does staff need training for a composting program to work?
Yes, brief training on what belongs in the compost stream is essential to preventing contamination issues.