Composting is the controlled biological decomposition of organic materials, such as leaves, grass clippings, and food waste into a nutrient-rich soil amendment. Once decomposed, the compost can be used onsite to fertilize gardens and improve plant growth. By keeping the material onsite, the fuel, emissions, and cost to haul the compost off site is avoided. For facilities that aren’t able to use compost onsite, contract with a certified commercial organics composting service (consult state and local environmental authorities or the U.S. Composting Council). Each certified commercial organics composting service accepts different types of organic waste, which may include: landscape debris (or yard waste), food waste, and compostable paper and fiber-based products (liners, foodware, tissue and packaging). Be aware that some commercial composting facilities do not accept meat and dairy.