Focus On Waste

Dynamics of the Waste Stream

The organic portion of the waste stream contains yard waste and kitchen waste, each representing 25% of total waste generated (with geographic fluctuations).

The average waste generated per household in North America is approximately 2,000 lbs per year* and it is estimated that about 50 percent of the total waste stream could be composted.**

On average, residents who compost at home can divert a minimum of 650 pounds per year from the solid waste stream.***

Home composting is not only a viable and useful component of solid waste management but the most cost effective waste management option available.

* EPA Characterization of Municipal Solid Waste in the United States: 1995 Update Statistics Canada, 2004 Waste Management Industry Survey U.S. Census Bureau Canada Post Householder Counts
** Composting Council of Canada
***Applied Compost Consulting, CA 1996