Costs and benefits of on-site organics composting

Modified on-site composting of organics or food residuals may prove to be a cost-effective, long-term management decision for some institutions. Organic composting can achieve the 65% solid waste diversion by 2000 goal in Washington state. A pilot project at the Echo Glen Children's Center in Washington demonstrates the beneficial cost analysis of the composting program. Less frequent refuse collection, inclusion of biosolids composting and increase in product volume can make the program more cost-effective. The composting system at the center is described.