Business Organics

Starting an organics recycling program can allow your business to expand its recycling program to include food waste and food-soiled paper products. 

Business operators can play an important role in easing the burden on the environment. About half of the waste produced in Hennepin County comes from businesses, and about 25 percent of what we throw away is food and food-soiled paper.

Besides helping the environment and reducing the demand on landfills, recycling organics has several additional benefits to businesses, including:

• Edible food goes to neighbors in need.
• You can reduce taxes and fees on waste disposal by reducing the amount of garbage you produce.
• It reflects well on your business, showing customers that you care about the community.

Organics programs for businesses

Organics recycling options currently available for businesses include:

• Food-to-People Programs. Donate edible food to organizations that help people in need.
• Food-to-Livestock Programs. Have your food processed into feed for livestock
• Organics Composting. Have your food scraps and food-soiled paper products turned into valuable compost.

Assistance for starting a program

Hennepin County can help you find waste management options that fit your business' needs. 

Free services available include:

• On-site assessment to help determine your best options and necessary start-up steps.
• An evaluation of potential costs and savings.
• Assistance setting up internal collection programs.
• Promotional and educational materials.
• Contact information and links to resources and recyclers.
• Follow-up and on-going assistance.

Call the Organics Program Coordinator at 612-348-5893 for assistance.