‘If It Grows, It Goes!’ Tips to Cut Back on Food Waste

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An estimated 40% of the food grown in the U.S. is never actually eaten and much of it gets discarded. Reducing your food waste can help the environment, as well as your wallet. 

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that, on average, a family of four spends $1,500 a year on food they never eat. 

According to the EPA, when organic matter like food waste ends up in a landfill, it decomposes and creates methane, a greenhouse gas pollutant that is responsible for roughly one-third of the warming from greenhouse gases. 

What goes in the green bin? 

When it comes to organic waste recycling, the County’s Department of Public Works (DPW) says to remember that “if it grows, it goes!” 

That means the only things going into your green organic waste bin should be food scraps, food-soiled paper (used paper towels, pizza boxes, paper plates, etc.) and yard trimmings.  

Moldy and spoiled foods are okay for your green bin as well. Remember: no organic waste should be placed in your trash bins. 

If are unsure what yard trimmings are allowed for organic recycling, DPW says you should reach out to your hauler to confirm. 

What is not allowed in the organic waste bin? 

The following items should not be placed in your green bin, according to DPW: 

  • Plastic bags 

  • Dirt, soil, socks and concrete 

  • Pet waste and kitty litter 

  • Diapers 

  • Clothing 

  • Liquids 

  • Glass, metal and plastics 

Tips to help you with organic recycling and to prevent food waste 

  • Collect your food scraps and food-soiled paper in a container with a closeable lid and store it in a convenient location, such as under the sink or in a refrigerator or freezer. 

  • Do not collect organic waste in plastic, compostable plastic or biodegradable plastic bags. Instead, wrap your scraps in paper before placing them in the container. You can add baking soda to the bin to soak up extra moisture and help with the smell. 

  • Add your food scraps to your green organic waste bin the night before collection. You can add shredded paper to the bin to help absorb moisture. 

  • Plan ahead for your shopping trips to prep your budget and determine how much food you will need to avoid buying excess food. 

  • Freeze or repurpose your leftovers to get the most bang for your buck. You can freeze your leftovers for a future meal or use them as part of a different recipe for another meal. 

  • Compost whatever food is left! DPW has more information on what composting is, the benefits of composting and how you can get started.