Let it Rot, Save a lot!
The County of Prince Edward is giving away a limited number of composters this Earth Day to support a more efficient way to manage organic waste like food scraps and garden clippings.
Disposing organic waste in a landfill is harmful for the environment. Food trapped inside a landfill doesn’t get the air it needs to break down normally into compost. Instead, it releases methane, a greenhouse gas that is believed to be a contributing factor to climate change.
The County is encouraging more people to take up backyard composting to reduce the financial burden of the curbside organics collection program. Curbside organics collection is a contracted service with the municipality paying a bill based on the weight of the material collected. By keeping organic waste in the backyard, residents can help reduce the cost to all taxpayers. In short, when you let it rot, you save a lot!
The County is giving away a limited number of composters on Earth Day — Saturday, April 22 — to support the most efficient means of managing organics waste. Composters can be picked up at the works garage located at 115 Lake Street in Picton between 8 am and noon.
Composters will be available on a first come first serve basis. Participants are asked to provide the location where the composter will be installed. A demonstration and home composting guide will be provided to those interested. Residents are also invited to attend “The Beauty of Compost” talk being held on April 25, and April 27 to learn more about a variety of composting options.
To help with administering the giveaway, a few spots remain open to reserve your composter in advance. Reserved composters must be picked up on April 22 and they will not be retained beyond the giveaway day. Go online to make your reservation.
If you have questions about the giveaway, contact Albert Paschkowiak, Environmental Services and Sustainability Supervisor, at apaschkowiak@pecounty.on.ca or call 613.476.2148 extension 4004.
Earth Day began in 1970 to raise awareness of environmental action. Today, countries around the world take part in events that showcase what organizations are doing to address various environmental issues. Visit the County website to learn more about the different events planned for Earth Day.