What are the big green bins popping up in Boston neighborhoods? A new option drop off food waste.

Boston has expanded its "Project Oscar" composting initiative, adding bins in Beacon Hill, Fenway, and the West End, raising the total to 20 locations across the city. According to Madeline Montgomery, the zero waste program coordinator, the city has collected over 108,000 pounds of food scraps this year, which are transformed into compost by Black Earth Compost. Residents in large buildings are ineligible for curbside composting but can utilize neighborhood bins for food waste. Acceptable materials include food scraps, coffee grounds, and paper products, while prohibited items like pizza boxes and pet waste risk contamination and higher disposal costs. Each compost bin features a lock to ensure residents can safely contribute without compromising the program's integrity.

The initiative responds to community feedback, emphasizing the need for more accessible composting options. Montgomery stated that reducing contamination is crucial for the sustainability of the project. This approach not only supports environmental health but also fosters community engagement in waste reduction efforts.