Title
Vote to approve grant proposal for NC Department of Environmental Quality Food Waste Grant to conduct a food waste drop off pilot program
Abstract
Introduction & Background: The purpose of the Food Waste Grant is to help local governments, non-profits, and businesses reduce the amount of wasted food being disposed of in landfills. When food waste is disposed of in landfills it will not fully decompose and contributes to methane emissions. When food waste is collected separately, it is taken to a commercial compost facility where it is turned into compost and the off gas is carbon dioxide. The grant proposal is to help support a food waste drop off pilot program to collect food waste and other compostable from Chatham County residents.
Discussion & Analysis: Solid Waste & Recycling conducts waste characterization studies every three years to help make program decisions, particularly related to reducing the waste sent to landfills for disposal. The March 2024 results show food waste was 21.3%. There was also 4.7% of other compostables, which includes compostable paper and yard waste. SW&R recognizes that food waste is the next material to address in terms of removing it from disposal in the landfill and reducing our drivers' hauls.
The pilot program would involve contracting with a hauler to collect the food waste and take it to a commercial composting facility. The contractor would provide roll carts and pick them up weekly. Food waste drop off would be available at four collection centers and maybe the Solid Waste & Recycling main facility. The grant would cover costs to purchase buildings to house the carts, installation materials, a pressure washer, signs, and flyers.
How does this relate to the Comprehensive Plan: Preserve the rural character and lifestyle of Chatham County. Become more resilient by mitigating, responding, and adapting to emerging threats. Foster a healthy community.
Budgetary Impact: The total grant proposal is $5,815.00. It re...
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