About this project
$2,590
51
Why is food waste an issue?
Landfills that contain food waste are a huge source of greenhouse gas emissions, which throw climate off balance. They are also sources for runoff that pollute water resources. Almost half the waste from the city that is trucked to out-of-state landfills can be composted right here, to make compost that will help build up great soil. With food security at an all-time low, economic resources increasingly exhausted, and our aquifers being depleted, trucking food waste out and commercial compost in has a negative effect of air quality, adding to the toll on communities, economies, and the planet.
What can we do about it?
Composting is our solution. It not only reduces waste and its deleterious effects, but is a benefit to the environment. Compost adds vital nutrients back into the soil, helps prevent erosion, and increases moisture retention. It is virtually free, and can be used to grow food as well as ornamental plants. Without the need for complicated technology, we can further reduce our dependency on petrochemical derived fertilizer.
Who is involved?
Our goal is to divert food waste from several key sources in western Queens. In addition to Master Composters conducting outreach to the 200+ community gardeners and their households, we're aiming to extend our reach to collect waste from two Greenmarkets, three bike tours that have rest stops in our community, and the four surrounding CSA's. Our coordinators would oversee day to day operations, monitor tasks and work toward goals; liaise with officials at the local botanical garden and greening organizations; and conduct bike tour collections & educational workshops. Participating CSA members will assist by transporting the waste at the end of distribution, and helping process plant debris and kitchen scraps on weekends. Community gardeners will assist in tabling at bike tours, and helping to collect fruit scraps. Youth & civic organization volunteers will help table and collect waste at the Greenmarket.
How can you help?
We are in desperate need of funds for a work trike & a storage shed for it. The proceeds generated from our Kickstarter campaign will be used for the purchase of a Worksman Mover (with all the bells and whistles needed to ensure a smooth and safe ride for all), built right here in Queens, for a fume-free haul of all the good stuff that would otherwise become garbage.
Our project also welcomes volunteers! Composting is a dirty job, but if you're ready to get your hands dirty, we'd love to have you.
Questions about this project? Check out the FAQ
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Funding period
- (87 days)