Organic Materials

In 2010, 250 million tons of municipal solid waste or MSW (more commonly known as trash or garbage) were generated in the United States. Organic materials—comprised of yard trimmings, food scraps, wood waste, and paper and paperboard products—are the largest component of our trash and make up more than two-thirds of the solid waste stream.

photos of yard trimmings, food scraps, wood waste, and paper

Reducing, reusing, recycling, and rebuying—the four “Rs”—is key to diverting organic materials from landfills or incinerators and protecting human health and our land, air, and water. Waste reduction and recycling prevents greenhouse gases (GHG) emissions, reduces pollutants, saves energy, conserves resources, and reduces the need for new disposal facilities.

This website provides information on organic materials, including

Yard Trimmings – information about collection and recovery of yard trimmings
Food Waste – information about environmentally sound food waste management
Wood Waste – information about wood waste recovery, reuse, and recycling
Where You Live – contacts for state organic materials programs
Reducing & Recycling – creative ways to reduce and better manage organic materials
Voluntary Initiatives – several programs and projects geared toward reducing and recycling organic materials.
Resources – additional sources of information, including publications and case studies.

Organic Materials

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