Georgia Composting Council FAQs

Membership 

What are the GCC membership levels?
Memberships are available to individuals, large businesses, small businesses, municipalities, students, and nonprofits.

How do I become a member of Georgia Composting Council (GCC)?
Visit GCC’s Membership page to submit a form and pay your membership dues to become a member.

How do I contact GCC?
You can email us at gacompostingcouncil@gmail.com and follow us on social media on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. @ gacompostingcouncil and Georgia Composting Council.

Who can become a GCC member?
Anyone with a vested interest in the mission and goals of the GCC!

Composting Basics

What is compost?
​The US Composting Council defines composting as the controlled, aerobic (oxygen-required) biological decomposition of organic materials by microorganisms. The result of this process is a dark, crumbly, earthy-smelling soil amendment known as compost.

What materials go into making compost?
Compost is made of organic materials including grass clippings, leaves, yard and tree trimmings, food scraps, crop residues, animal manure, and biosolids.

Why is composting important?
Composting is important for a number of reasons, including:

Reducing Food Waste: Every year, approximately 931 million tons of food end up in landfills worldwide. This waste includes items like household scraps, restaurant leftovers, and unsold grocery items. By composting, we divert this organic material away from landfills.

Greenhouse Gas Emissions: When organic matter decomposes in a landfill, it produces methane gas, a potent greenhouse gas. Composting, on the other hand, reduces greenhouse gas emissions by more than 50%. Methane contributes significantly to global warming, so composting helps mitigate its impact.

Agricultural and food system benefits: Composting greatly impacts our soils and food systems. When finished compost is applied to soils it improves water infiltration and retention, reduces erosion, decreases the need for chemical fertilizers, and decreases plant disease. It also increases the nutrients in soil which then get taken up into food and create healthier foods for our communities.

Creating Valuable Organic Matter: Composting turns food scraps and yard trimmings into valuable organic matter. This reduces the need for landfill space and combats problems associated with overused landfills, such as soil contamination.

Environmental Stewardship: By participating in composting programs, we instill a sense of environmental stewardship. It’s a simple yet impactful way to contribute to a healthier planet.

What are the different types and scales of composting?
Composting can happen at various scales and a number of different ways. The EPA provides a helpful breakdown on their Approaches to Composting page.

How can I participate in composting in my community?
Composting can happen at various scales in your community, and may already be happening! Join GCC and connect with other composters, and learn about composting opportunities in your community and across Georgia.

How do I know if food service packaging is compostable?
Industry best management practices support the composting of any packaging or serviceware like plates, cups, utensils, to-go boxes, etc., that are certified compostable by the Biodegradable Products Institute.

Programs, Facilities, and Trainings

Where can I find compost training information?
Visit GCC’s Programs and Trainings page or visit US Composting Council’s Compost University landing page.

Where can I find compost permitting information?
Visit Georgia EPD’s Composting page to learn more about compost permitting information.

How do I start a compost site?
For rules and permitting information on developing a composting site in Georgia, go to Georgia EPD’s Composting page.

How do I locate a site that accepts compostable materials for my business?
Visit Georgia EPD’s Composting page and find their most up to date list of active composters in Georgia.  This list is not inclusive of all permitted compost operations, as other permitted facilities (such as landfills) may also compost through their existing permit. Please contact these providers for more information on their operations, whether they accept from the public or not, and accepted feedstocks. Check locally to determine if composting is available in your area.

Where can I drop off my food waste?
Better Earth has a compost drop-off database where you can find compost drop-off sites in Georgia and across the country.