The City of Kalamazoo is excited to introduce a pilot Food Scrap Recycling program as part of our Community Sustainability Plan. With up to 38% of landfill waste being organic, this program offers residents an easy way to recycle food scraps and reduce waste.
This is a pilot program that will run through the end of 2025.
Instead of sending organic waste to landfills, where it contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, food scraps can be recycled into nutrient-rich compost. By participating, you're helping create a more sustainable Kalamazoo for future generations.
Participation is simple! Collect your food scraps at home using a food-grade bucket with a lid. When your bucket is full (or every 7-14 days), bring the scraps to one of the designated drop-off locations and empty them into the green carts labeled for Food Scraps.
We have multiple drop-off locations throughout the city. Look for the green carts at these sites:
Additional locations may be added during the pilot program, running through the end of 2025.
You can drop off the following food scraps and organic materials:
The drop-off site at 322 E Stockbridge is available to all residents 24/7.
Drop-offs at neighborhood locations are only allowed during their business hours. Hours may vary by site, so check with your local drop-off station for details.
Yes! In addition to using the Food Scrap Recycling Program, Kalamazoo residents are also permitted to compost at home under City ordinance, which allows for well-maintained compost piles. Compost tumblers are another effective option for managing food waste in a contained and efficient way. If you're interested in compost at home, please check in with your neighbors as a courtesy, to help ensure the location and upkeep of the pile does not negatively impact surrounding properties.
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