Town of Kennebunk, ME

09/26/2024 | News release | Distributed by Public on 09/26/2024 12:32

Sign Up to Receive a 'Lobster Trap' Compost Bin

The Town of Kennebunk recently received a grant from the Maine Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to offer 100 free "lobster trap" compost bins to interested town residents.

The compost bins made of material typically used for lobster traps are intended to be used for "backyard composting" as part of the town's ongoing commitment to reducing waste and promoting sustainability.

This initiative is a key part of Kennebunk's efforts to reduce the amount of food waste entering the waste stream and cut down on tipping fees associated with curbside collection. By encouraging residents to compost at home, the town aims to divert food waste, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and support the production of high-quality compost for use in local gardens.

Sign Up for a Free Composting Bin
Kennebunk residents who are interested in starting or improving their backyard composting efforts can sign up now to receive a free composting bin by calling the Public Services Department at
207-985-4811. The mesh composting bins are designed for easy use and maintenance. A handout with guidance on how to properly balance food and yard waste to create rich compost is available on the town's website at www.kennebunkmaine.us/compostbins.

100 composting bins will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. Participants will also have the opportunity to contribute to the program by monitoring their waste reduction and compost output, helping the town track the effectiveness of the initiative.

Interested residents are encouraged to sign up immediately to secure a bin, as supplies are limited. To reserve your bin, call 207-985-4811.

Why Compost? The program not only helps homeowners reduce their household waste, but also contributes to Kennebunk's larger Climate Action Plan, which seeks to reduce emissions and increase community resilience. By turning organic waste into compost, residents can help decrease methane emissions from landfills, reduce the town's overall waste, and create nutrient-rich soil for gardens. For more information about the Backyard Composting Program, please visit www.kennebunkmaine.us/compostbins.