In an effort to promote sustainability and reduce landfill waste, the city of Kalamazoo has introduced a pilot Food Scrap Recycling Program. This initiative invites all residents to participate in recycling organic materials by the end of 2025. The program provides a convenient method for households to manage their food waste responsibly, encouraging community involvement in environmental preservation.

A Step Towards Sustainable Living

During the golden hues of autumn, the vibrant city of Kalamazoo embarked on an innovative journey with its new Food Scrap Recycling Program. This endeavor seeks to minimize the volume of organic refuse sent to landfills. Residents are encouraged to collect leftovers in specialized buckets and transport them to designated drop-off points located throughout the city. These sites include a central hub at 322 E Stockbridge Ave, as well as locations managed by neighborhood associations such as Edison and Vine. The program accommodates a wide range of items like fruits, vegetables, meat, seafood, bones, dairy products, and even soiled paper goods. However, it excludes plastic bags, glass, metal, and other non-compostable materials.

Residents must ensure that these items are not mixed with regular curbside recycling. Detailed instructions regarding acceptable materials and location maps are available online for those interested in participating.

Through this initiative, Kalamazoo is setting a commendable example for other communities by fostering sustainable practices among its citizens. It underscores the importance of collective responsibility in addressing environmental challenges. As more people embrace eco-conscious behaviors, we move closer to achieving a cleaner, greener future. This program serves as a reminder that small actions, when multiplied by many, can lead to significant positive change.