North Austin News

The city of Austin has introduced a new requirement for multifamily properties to provide composting services to residents and employees. As of October 1, 2024, apartments, condos, non-state dorms, assisted living facilities, and nursing homes must offer convenient access to commercial composting collection. This initiative aims to advance Austin's goal of achieving zero waste.

Composting involves recycling organic materials such as food waste, plant material, and paper products. The process transforms these materials into resources instead of sending them to landfills. The city's curbside composting guide provides information on what items can be composted.

Under the new ordinance, multifamily properties are required to place a compost container within 25 feet of each landfill trash container on their premises. A licensed hauler will collect the compost weekly. Residents are encouraged to use reusable containers with lids for collecting food scraps at home before disposing of them in the designated composting containers.

Property managers are expected to educate residents about the available composting services through various outreach methods like videos, emails, maps, and signs.

The importance of composting lies in its environmental benefits. Organic materials in landfills release methane gas which contributes to atmospheric warming over time. By participating in this program, residents can help make Austin cleaner and more sustainable.

Residents who do not yet have access to these services should inquire with their property managers about implementation plans. Those passionate about zero waste may consider becoming Zero Waste Block Leaders to promote practices like composting throughout the community.