RethinkWaste Launches Free Compost Program for Educators

RethinkWaste is launching a free Compost Giveaway Program for public and private schools within its service area on the Peninsula.

Through the program, schools can receive up to five 50-pound bags of compost for a garden project, or up to 20 cubic yards of the material for landscaping projects per school year, according to RethinkWaste officials.

The compost is made from the yard trimmings and food scraps set out by residents and businesses for collection in the green CartSMART and BizSMART containers.

The Compost Giveaway Program is meant to serve as a resource for schools in alignment with the California Department of Education’s Garden in Every School initiative. According to the state, students who participate in school garden projects discover fresh food, make healthier food choices, and are physically active, RethinkWaste officials said.

Using compost in gardens and landscaping projects helps improve soil quality, conserve water and control erosion, among others.

“We are excited to extend this program and service to all schools in our service area just in time for spring, when lots of garden activities are going to resume,” said Faustina Mututa, RethinkWaste Environmental Education Coordinator.

“We hope that schools take advantage of this opportunity and get kids involved in garden projects – closing the loop on how all their food waste and yard clippings can be reused again to grow healthy, fresh fruits and vegetables!”

Interested educators must complete a request form to receive the compost. School administrators need to arrange for the pick up of the bags of compost at the Shoreway Environmental Center, which is located in San Carlos.

RethinkWaste will arrange for the delivery of the larger quantity of loose compost through Recology San Mateo County at no cost to the schools. The Compost Giveaway Program is offered through the Environmental Education Center at the Shoreway facility.

To request the compost and for more information about other programs available to schools, visit www.RethinkWaste.org. 

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