Frequently Asked Questions:

Why is composting important to the City of Dallas? A considerable portion of the waste in the City of Dallas comes from organic materials found in single-family homes, multi-family residences, and businesses. Because organics make up such a big part of what ends up in landfills, it's crucial to find ways to divert them from traditional waste disposal. The cycle of organics is beneficial: food waste can be composted, and the resulting compost can then be used to grow more food, creating a sustainable and productive loop.

Why was this Compost Pilot created? Developing a pilot program to divert food waste from landfilling to composting is an important step in minimizing environmental impact and promoting sustainability. By converting food waste into organic material through composting, we reduce greenhouse gas emissions while also producing a valuable soil additive that can be used to enhance soil quality. Focusing this program on an Entertainment District is both an innovative and unique approach that can have many benefits: A) for the environment B) and with the final product  used in community gardens to grow vegetables, help to promote healthy eating in less advantaged areas. Securing funding from the US Department of Agriculture for this food waste composting pilot program shows a commitment to tackling the issue on a larger scale. Involving multiple City of Dallas departments, the Bishops Arts business owners, a local Composting company and Dallas County demonstrates a collaborative effort to make a meaningful impact on landfilling of food waste and sustainability.

With the support of all these entities greatly enhance the success of the program. Each participant brings its expertise and resources, whether it's providing logistical, Food waste generation/collection, or public education and outreach. By working together,  pooling our resources and knowledge, ensuring a comprehensive approach to tackling food waste and composting in the Bishop Arts Entertainment District.

Where does the food waste go? After the food scraps are collected, they are taken to a composting facility. There, they undergo a controlled decomposition process known as composting. Composting allows the food scraps to break down naturally into nutrient-rich soil additive called compost. This finished product can be used to enrich soil in gardens, farms, or landscaping projects. The compost directly generated from this pilot program will go to Dallas County. Sending material to identified Dallas County community gardens is a fantastic way to support the county's healthy eating initiative. By using compost in community gardens, it not only helps improve the soil's health but also promotes sustainable gardening practices. It will be wonderful to see the efforts of this program will contribute to a healthier environment and encourage nutritious food production.

What types of organic waste are accepted? Please see what materials are accepted by viewing this flyer. 

Is there a plan for expanding the compost program to other districts or businesses in the city? Collaborating with all stakeholders is key to achieving our goals. By involving the residents of Dallas, private businesses, and public entities we can create a collective effort towards food waste diversion and sustainability. Engaging these sectors can help raise awareness, encourage participation, and potentially lead to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly city. It helps to reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills and promotes the principles of the sustainability pyramid, particularly the tiers of Reduce and Reuse again, contributing to a more circular and eco-friendly approach to waste management. Remember, a united and inclusive approach will always yield a better result. 

How can residents and customers support the composting efforts of local restaurants?

To support the composting efforts of local restaurants, residents and customers can take a few steps: 

 - Educate themselves: Learn about the composting practices of the local restaurants. Some restaurants may already have composting programs in place, while others may not. Understanding the efforts made by each establishment will help customers align their actions accordingly.
 - Inquire about composting options: When dining at a restaurant, ask the staff if they have composting systems and if they separate their waste. If they do, make a conscious effort to dispose of your food waste, napkins, and other compostable materials in the compost bins provided.
 - Reduce food waste: Minimizing food waste is beneficial for the environment and composting efforts. Request smaller portions, share meals with dining companions, or take-home leftovers for later. By being mindful of the amount of food ordered, not only are you reducing waste but also supporting composting practices indirectly.
 - Encourage composting programs: Engage with local restaurants and community organizations to advocate for composting programs. By expressing your support and interest in composting, you can encourage restaurants to establish composting initiatives if they haven't already done so.
 - Spread the word: Share information about local restaurants with composting programs through social media, word of mouth, or online review platforms. By raising awareness among your friends, family, and social network, you can encourage others to support these establishments and their composting efforts.
 - Remember, every small action counts, and by supporting composting efforts, residents and customers can contribute to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly community.

​Partners for Pilot Program:

​City of Dallas	​Turn Compost	​Jim Lake Co.	The Organic Recycler​	​Dallas County
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