KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) – The City of Kalamazoo has launched of a new pilot Food Scrap Recycling Program, aimed at reducing the volume of organic waste sent to landfills.
City officials say the program represents another step toward building a more sustainable, environmentally conscious Kalamazoo.
The pilot program runs through the end of 2025. The city says by keeping organic waste out of landfills, they hope to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote healthier soil through composting.
“We’re always looking for ways to reduce waste and make it easier for residents to take action,” explained Chris Broadbent, solid waste coordinator for the City of Kalamazoo. “This pilot program gives people a simple way to keep food scraps out of the landfill and put them to better use through composting.”
Residents can collect their food scraps in a food-grade bucket with a lid. When the bucket is full (or every 7–14 days), they can bring it to a drop-off site and empty it into the green carts labeled for food scraps. Food scrap drop-off is currently available at:
· 322 East Stockbridge Avenue, a central site, open to all city residents every day
· Edison Neighborhood Association, 816 Washington Avenue
· Vine Neighborhood Association, 806 S Westnedge Avenue
The program accepts all kinds of food scraps and some other organic material, like fruits & vegetables; meat, seafood, and bones; dairy and eggshells; bread, nuts, grains; cut flowers and houseplants; coffee grounds, filters, tea bags; pizza boxes; and BPI-certified compostable products and soiled paper products.
Plastic bags or containers; regular paper or cardboard (unless soiled); pet waste; EPS foam/Styrofoam; and glass or metal are not accepted.
Complete program details, drop-off guidelines, and a map of locations can be found at www.kalamazoocity.org/FoodScraps.
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