Composting in Denver – Updated for 2020
Composting in Denver his becoming more accessible for residents. This initiative hopes to keep organic waste out of landfills and reused as compost in gardens rather than rotting in landfills.
According to an article in the Denver Post only 20% of Denver’s recyclables and biodegradable waste made it to a separate bin last year. This is a bit lower than expected (the goal is to have 34% by 2020). So, in order to increase the participation, Denver is expanding the locations that compost pick up will be available, notably in Green Valley Ranch and Montbello. There will be four more routes coming in the near future. Additionally, Denver Public Works is encouraging more people to recycle by dropping off marked recycling cans to people who have opted out of the free service.
Composting in Denver 101
What is composting? In a nutshell composting is the act of reducing the amount of organic waste that put in landfills and up-cycling the waste to be used as material that can create healthier gardens. Compost is the material that comes out of the process of composting. Compost can be used to make soil healthier in gardens and help crops grow bigger. For more information about composting check out this article from Green Matters.
Although Denver is trying to increase the number of people who are currently using a composting service, it seems many people are hesitant to take part. In fact, only about 12.5% of eligible people are signing up. Although it may seem daunting, starting composting is fairly simple! Check out the list below for a very basic overview on starting a compost pile at your home!:
- To start, you will need a bin for your compostable items (the city of Denver is providing this to it’s residents that sign up for the program-learn more here!)
- You will be surprised what can go into the bin! Here are just a few examples:
- grass cuttings
- veggie and fruit scraps
- coffee grounds/tea leaves
- cotton clothing (torn up)
- egg shells
- hair
- paper towels
- Your compost bin needs water and air to decompose properly
- Layer garden soil into your bin occasionally to help with the decomposition process
This is a VERY basic list of how to compost BUT as you can see, it does not take much work to do it and it can help keep trash out of landfills (and make Denver greener!)
Why recycling matters
For those people who are choosing not to participate in the FREE recycling service offered by the city of Denver, YOU SHOULD BE! There is literally no reason why you can’t do this. Here is a list from SOCRRA that offers ten reasons to start recycling:
- It is good for our economy (recycling programs can provide raw materials to make new products)
- It creates jobs!
- It reduces the waste that is being buried in landfills (the average American creates 7.5 lbs of garbage A DAY!)
- It keeps our environment and air clean
- It saves energy
- Preserves landfill space
- Prevents climate change
- Reduces water pollution
- Protects wildlife
- By recycling and buying recycled products you are creating a demand. Keep it up!
Even just doing a little in your own life can make a huge difference in the world. Please consider composting and recycling when you can. The city of Denver is taking great initiative to ensure you everything you need to make smarter and more responsible waste decisions.
About Affordable Roll-Offs
Affordable Roll-Offs is your number 1 choice for roll-off dumpster rentals in Denver. Affordable Roll-Offs offers flat-rate rental prices that include delivery, pick-up, disposal and a generous rental period in the Denver Metro Area. Whether you are remodeling or cleaning up, a roll-off dumpster is your best bet for getting rid of the trash quickly and efficiently. We don’t provide weekly trash service, we only rent roll-off dumpsters. If you have any questions visit or FAQ page or give us a call (303) 339-0293
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