FAQ
Q: How can I sign up for service from CompostMates?
A: You can sign up for our membership waitlist here.
Q: I currently receive pick-up service from CompostMates. What can I donate? What can’t I donate?
| A: We can accept:
Fruit and vegetable scrap (no stickers) Bread and grains Eggshells (preferably rinsed) Coffee grounds Coffee filters and tea bags Old flower arrangements |
We cannot accept:
x Avocado pits x Meat scraps (bones, skin, fat) x Food cooked in oil x Dairy products x Compostable bags (require industrial composting) x Nonbiodegradable waste |
Q: I am unable to compost at home, but I still want to donate my scraps while I’m on the waitlist. What should I do?
A: If you live on campus, check if your residence hall provides free compost bins. If they don’t, or you’re off-campus, we recommend collecting your food scraps in a Tupperware or bin and donating to any of the following sites:
- The Carrboro Farmers’ Market takes all kinds of food waste on Saturdays only.
- The Chapel Hill Farmers’ Market also takes all kinds of food waste on Saturdays only.
- The Carolina Community Garden has a receptacle outside the garden for use at any time. They cannot accept meat or dairy products, leftover cooked food, paper products, non-biodegradable waste, grass clippings, yard waste, or commercially compostable items like compostable bags, plates, or boxes.
- On campus: Chase and Lenoir Dining Halls, the Beach Café, Alpine Bagel Café, Wendy’s, and the Friday Center collect food scraps in a compost-labeled waste bin.
Q: What is the time commitment for drivers?
A: We require all drivers to attend 2 pick-up days each semester. On average, running a route takes about 1 hour. Pick-up days are on Saturdays and Sundays, and drivers meet up for breakfast at 9:30 before starting their routes. Free breakfast is guaranteed!