Columbus residents now may use three new drop-off locations that collect food waste for composting, Mayor Andrew J. Ginther and the Department of Public Service announced at a ribbon-cutting today. The facilities aim to help decrease the nearly 1 million pounds of food waste dumped at the Franklin County Sanitary Landfill every day.
The city pilot program allows residents to dispose of food scraps at no charge at collection facilities at:
- Anheuser Busch Sports Park, 4990 Olentangy River Rd., 43214
- Dodge Park and Community Center, 667 Sullivant Ave., 43215
- Scioto Southland Park, 3901 Parsons Ave., 43207
“These drop-off facilities will make it more convenient for residents to sustainably dispose of and compost food waste,” said Mayor Ginther. “This new city service strengthens our continued efforts to provide disposal options that advance our commitment to reduce landfill waste and greenhouse gas emissions for a healthier, cleaner climate for all Columbus residents.”
The city’s Climate Action Plan includes a goal to reduce by 90 percent the amount of organic waste, specifically food waste, being dumped at the county landfill by 2050.
The drop-off sites are identified by signage at the three Recreation and Parks locations. Columbus residents may use them seven days a week, 24 hours a day. The facilities will be serviced weekly, and the food waste will be hauled by Compost Clubhouse to a composting facility in London, Ohio, to divert it from the landfill.
“The Department of Public Service and our Refuse Collection Division are eager to begin this new food waste collection service for Columbus residents,” said Director Jennifer L. Gallagher. “Data and other information we collect on usage will help to guide how we deliver more food waste and composting options to residents in the future.”
The program is launching with grant support from the Solid Waste Authority of Central Ohio. “SWACO appreciates the opportunity to support Columbus’ efforts to reduce food waste,” said Joe Lombardi, SWACO’s executive director. “When coupled with waste prevention education, infrastructure like food waste drop-off sites help households save money, conserve natural resources and ultimately help to protect the life of the landfill.