MONTREAL (RecyclingMonster): The District of Columbia’s Department of Public Works (DPW) has collected more than 1 million pounds of food waste through its Smart Composting Bins. The increased collection rate points to growing participation in the local recycling program.

31-Bin Composting Network Reaches Milestone in 18 Months

The milestone was reached within just 18 months of launching the 31-bin network. Residents using the 24-hour facilities have helped keep large quantities of food scraps out of landfills. The collected material is converted into compost.

By diverting 1 million pounds of food waste from landfills, DPW has delivered an environmental benefit equivalent to growing nearly 3,500 trees for a decade. The Smart Composting Bins now account for nearly 10% of all food waste collected by the agency over the past 10 years.

DPW Director Anthony Crispino credited District residents for the achievement, noting that their regular participation has helped the program expand rapidly. Nearly 10,000 residents have registered to use the Smart Composting Bins.

DPW Plans 20 More Smart Composting Bins This Fall

The agency plans to add 20 more Smart Composting Bins this fall, increasing access to food waste recycling across the District. The expansion is expected to encourage more residents to separate food scraps and support efforts to reduce landfill waste.

Since 2014, DPW’s food waste programs have diverted more than 11 million pounds of food waste for composting.