Biowasting Away

Extending the lifespan of our landfill? Check.

Reducing the amount of greenhouse gases our landfills generate by removing organic waste? Check.

Turning waste into a usable product that enriches the earth instead of damaging it? Double check.

These are all savvy reasons to get with the (Green Bin) program. You might have had your Green Bin since the fall but collection is starting this month, so check your calendar for exact collection dates.

We’ve been testing the Green Bin since December 1 to get a better idea of how it works and how much compostable garbage we generate and it came as a surprise that the amount of garbage on our curb has been cut in half.

The difference between ordinary backyard composting and the Green Bin program is that the Green Bin goes above and beyond potato peels and yard waste. We can use the Green Bin for meat and dairy products, kitty litter (as long as it’s wrapped in newsprint or dumped in a cardboard box), microwave popcorn bags, and paper tainted by food (like pizza boxes or butcher paper). We have found it an exceptionally handy way to dispose of uneaten sandwiches, table scraps, paper towels sopping with spilled milk, piles of tissues from lingering colds, and food plumbed from the depths of our fridge and freezer. It’s easy being green!

Good to Know:

• The buff-coloured mini-bin goes on the counter or under the sink, and the 80 litre green one goes in the garage (just in case any raccoons or squirrels are tempted by its buffet of aromas). Although the bin is critter-proof (you need opposable thumbs to get it open), there have been a few incidents of squirrels using them as a drive-thru. The experts tell us to dab some menthol vapour rub around the edge of the lid to make the smell less appealing to four-legged marauders. Paper liners are available for the mini-bin or you can make some using old newspapers instead. Just follow the instructions on this YouTube video.
• Despite the efficiency of our DIY liners, we must accept the fact that both bins are going to get dirty. Before we put anything into the large bin we add a layer of two of old newspapers or dry leaves on the bottom, and add a layer of ‘dry waste (like tissues, shredded paper, dead plants) over each addition of food waste. Some residents are keeping a bag of leaves aside for this purpose. This will cut down on odour and potential insect issues once it gets warmer.
• Rinse the mini-bin with soapy hot water after each use. Once it gets warmer we’ll take a power washer or a garden hose to the big one when needed. We’ve set aside an old mop so it’ll be easier to scrub out the bottom (no need to worry about Green Bin smells in the winter—everything will freeze!).
• Green Bin pickup during the cold months is bi-weekly, but come April it will be every week.
• For a complete list of items which do and do not go into the Green Bin, visit www.greenbinottawa.ca.

With our new Green Bin, we’ve never ‘Bin’ so Green.

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