Behind the larger system that drives food waste away from trash disposal are the diligent food scrap separation efforts in kitchens, offices, dining halls, and manufacturing facilities. Business food waste programs require training, logistics, and planning to be successful. The program at Wheatleigh exemplifies that. With a focus on employee training and a dedication to the environment, this secluded resort has seamlessly integrated new waste diversion practices into its operations.
A luxury hotel in The Berkshires, Wheatleigh is an elegant Italian-style mansion built during the 19th century and known for its serene views and acclaimed dining. While providing guests with a peaceful stay in their country home estate, Wheatleigh responsibly and sustainably manages their waste. Earlier this year, the hotel collected mattresses for recycling as they made room upgrades. This initiative is an excellent example for other hospitality businesses to follow in advance of the MassDEP mattress waste disposal ban, which goes into effect on November 1, 2022.
Wheatleigh recently started source separating food scraps in their kitchen to divert any surplus food scraps from disposal. Wheatleigh chose to launch their new program with Tommy’s Compost, a local, one-woman-operated food scrap pickup service. Hotel staff were particularly grateful that Tommy’s Compost provides bear-proof outdoor receptacles, which is important in the Berkshires.
To prepare Wheatleigh’s program for success, RecyclingWorks in Massachusetts (RecyclingWorks) provided guidance on food scraps collection best practices in the kitchen, staff training tools, and sample signage. Wheatleigh staff transitioned to placing food scraps in a different bin with ease, producing clean compost feedstock for Tommy’s Compost to pick up weekly. Wheatleigh appreciates the inherently communal process of food waste diversion for its environmental value and for the opportunity to partner with other local businesses.
RecyclingWorks offers no-cost technical assistance to businesses and institutions on waste reduction, diversion, and food recovery programs, providing recommendations that can improve program sustainability, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. Implementing food recovery programs is particularly important for businesses and institutions that produce one-half ton or more food waste per week, as they will be subject to the lower threshold for the commercial organics waste disposal ban beginning November 1, 2022.
You can explore the RecyclingWorks website for tips on waste ban compliance and best practices for collecting source separated food scraps. We also provide guidance on contracting with haulers. To learn more about how RecyclingWorks can help your organization meet its waste goals, call us at (888) 254-5525 or email info@recyclingworksma.com.