Landfills across the nation are growing too fast. Americans have a habit of buying stuff — and then discarding it.

That’s why the state Department of Environmental Conservation is noting Compost Awareness Week through May 10. It encourages local communities to explore the benefits of composting.

The 2025 New York State Compost Awareness Week is “Sustainable Communities Begin with Compost,” which highlights composting opportunities, including backyard home composting, local composting programs, and large-scale commercial facilities. “Composting is something all New Yorkers can do to support building sustainable communities and reduce the impacts of solid waste on landfills,” Acting DEC Commissioner Amanda Lefton said. “DEC is thrilled to join our partners statewide to celebrate New York State Compost Awareness Week and encourages everyone to explore the benefits of composting. From diverting food scraps for recycling and providing financial assistance to communities and organizations for composting programs, DEC is committed to ongoing efforts to increase composting and prevent emissions that contribute to climate change.”

Composting organic materials such as yard trimmings and food scraps provides many benefits, including reducing the amount of waste that ends up in landfills or combustion facilities. Reducing the amount of organic waste sent to landfills reduces the production of methane, a potent greenhouse gas.

Residents have been recycling for decades now in an effort to eliminate waste. Composting is one more way.

For more information, visit https://www.nysar3.org/page/nys-compost-awareness-week-2020-165.html