In the City of Vancouver, composting is a mandatory practice. It is also a great way to reduce waste and promote environmental consciousness. However, managing composting in an office setting, especially during the summer months, requires careful planning to avoid common pitfalls. Let’s explore how to effectively manage office composting during the summer while maintaining a clean, fresh-smelling, and pest-free workspace.
Common Office Composting Mistakes
One of the most common mistakes when composting is improper sorting of waste. It’s essential to educate employees on what can and cannot be composted. Food scraps, coffee grounds, and plant-based materials are typically suitable, while plastics, metals, and certain paper products are not. Contamination from non-compostable items can lead to unpleasant odours and hinder the composting process. If you are ever unsure about what can be composted, try contacting your local municipality or waste hauler for clarification.
Keeping the Office Smelling Fresh in Indoor Heat
During summer, indoor temperatures can rise, potentially accelerating the decomposition process in compost bins and cause unpleasant odours. Ensure compost bins have tight-fitting lids to minimize airflow and use compostable liners such as newsprint, paper bags, or cellulose-lined bags to absorb moisture and contain smells. Empty bins regularly, especially if they contain wet or particularly pungent materials, to prevent lingering odours.
Pest and Rodent Prevention
Warm weather invites pests and rodents, posing a challenge for office composting. Using secure lids will help to keep bins sealed and deter pests. It is also best to avoid placing bins near entrances or areas with high foot traffic and to ensure you clean them regularly. Storing food scraps in the office fridge or freezer will also help keep bugs at bay. If pests become an issue, consider incorporating natural deterrents like vinegar or citrus peels around the composting area.
Cleaning the Bins
Cleanliness is crucial for maintaining a hygienic composting system. Wash compost bins regularly with lemon juice, white vinegar, or baking soda and water to remove odours and residue. Allow bins to dry completely before adding fresh compost materials. Encourage employees to clean up any spills promptly to prevent mould growth and maintain a pleasant workplace.
Embracing Sustainability
Office composting isn’t just about waste reduction—it’s a cornerstone of sustainable practices. By diverting organic waste from landfills, offices can significantly reduce their environmental footprint and foster a collaborative working environment. Highlight the benefits of composting to employees, such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions and conserving landfill space to foster a culture of sustainability within the workplace.
The importance of implementing and maintaining a successful office composting program during the summer should not be understated. Educate employees about proper sorting, manage odours with regular bin cleaning and proper ventilation, and employ pest prevention strategies to ensure a clean and inviting workspace.
If keeping your compost bins clean and odour-free sounds like too much work, consider hiring Clean Green Solutions to ensure your office is always looking, and smelling its best. Call their team at 604-644-8540 for a quote today!