Philadelphia Parks & Recreation is growing its Community Compost Network through the department’s urban agriculture program, Farm Philly. A third round of applications to join the program is now open and will remain available through July 11.
The city’s Community Compost Network launched in 2019, and supplies free compost systems while simultaneously educating neighbors on how to manage small-scale neighborhood composting operations.
The Parks and Rec’s Community Compost Network is currently made up of 20 sites, with plans to expand that number by an additional five to ten locations. Each new location will receive free composting resources to support community-driven sustainability.
“This program offers residents the chance to take an active part in reducing waste in their neighborhoods,” said Andrew Kirkpatrick, Urban Greening Coordinator of Farm Philly.” Those who have joined the network already are seeing a big impact removing food scraps from the waste stream.”
Community-scale composting boasts many benefits, from waste reduction to soil enrichment to street cleanliness. The program aims to help communities collaborate to limit organic waste in landfills and reduce the garbage on the street.
The network’s current sites are located in publicly accessible spaces, including neighborhood gardens, urban farms, places of worship, schools, recreation centers and public parks.
“Expanding the Community Compost Network reflects our commitment to building a greener, more equitable Philadelphia,” said Susan Slawson, Philadelphia Parks & Recreation Commissioner. “By bringing this program to neighborhoods that have historically had less access to sustainability resources, we’re empowering more residents to take part in climate action and improve their own communities.”
To qualify for participation or to learn more about Philadelphia Parks & Recreation’s Farm Philly, visit farmphilly.org
