Curbside composting starts in Minneapolis
Big green bins will start appearing in Minneapolis today as the city rolls out the first phase of its organics recycling program.
Residents will now be able to recycle compostable items like paper towels, pizza boxes or bones, which can't be put into traditional yard compost bins. The organics recycling program still won't accept items like oils, fat or yard waste.
The organics recycling program is being implemented in two phases across the city. About a quarter of residents who requested to participate in the program will receive their bins now, while all others will receive them next spring.
City officials say residents can start filling the carts as soon as they arrive.
Create a More Connected Minnesota
MPR News is your trusted resource for the news you need. With your support, MPR News brings accessible, courageous journalism and authentic conversation to everyone - free of paywalls and barriers. Your gift makes a difference.
Anyone who wants to participate in the program must opt-in by emailing swrcustomer@minneapolismn.gov or calling 612-673-2917.
A 2013 study by the city projected that about 40 percent of residents will participate in the program. As of last week, about 30 percent of city residents had signed up for it.
The program will cost about $8 million to launch. Costs will be covered through an additional trash service charge of $3.40 per month for all residents in the city. There is no additional cost to participate in the composting program..
A detailed FAQ about the new organics recycling program is available at the city's website.