Composting is being promoted by Austin Resource Recovery (ARR) as a way for residents to reduce waste and support the city’s zero waste goals. By using green composting carts, Austinites can dispose of organic materials such as food scraps, yard trimmings, and paper for weekly collection.
Residents are asked to place their composting carts at the curb by 5:30 a.m. on collection days, with lids closed and carts positioned at least five feet from other objects to help ensure safe pickup by crews.
Collected compostables are delivered to private processing facilities where they are turned into nutrient-rich compost. This finished product is then made available for use in local gardens and landscapes. According to ARR, “Compost enriches soil, retains moisture, and promotes healthy plant growth.”
The city highlights that composting also helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions compared to sending organic material to landfills. “Composting every banana peel or yard clipping helps create healthier soil. It also leads to cleaner air and a more sustainable city,” according to ARR.
Austin manages a budget of $5.9 billion and employs over 16,000 staff members across its operations, according to its official website. The city emphasizes diversity, inclusion, community pride, and sustainable development as part of its core values in striving for livability among major cities (source). Austin has also received high ratings for its municipal services when compared with other large cities (source).
For more information about how to participate in the city’s composting program, residents can visit AustinTexas.gov/CompostingGuide.
