UMass Amherst recently published a report on a residential compost pilot program in one of their dormitories.

A trash sort in the fall of 2014 determined that more than a quarter of the waste from the North Apartments was food waste. The original pilot in one dorm, North D, was completed during the fall of 2015. An expanded pilot is currently underway at the 3 other North dorms. The intention is for this framework to be replicated across the UMass campus.

The report outlines the stakeholder engagement process, implementation, and results of the pilot. During the 14-week pilot, nearly 1,000 pounds of compostable materials were diverted from the trash.

RecyclingWorks assisted UMass in selecting and sourcing equipment for the expanded pilot.

RecyclingWorks in Massachusetts is a recycling assistance program for schools, businesses, and institutions. RecyclingWorks organizes regular recycling forums for the College & University sector. If you are interested in attending a C&U Recycling Forum, or need assistance with setting up a recycling program, call our hotline: (888) 254-5525 or email us at info@recyclingworksma.com.