Food Waste Bin Solutions Make a Sustainable Impact

On average, a family of 2 produces approximately 7 pounds of food waste per week. Instead of depositing this food waste into landfills, the City of Temple aims to transform it into valuable soil amendment.

This initiative serves multiple purposes: it prolongs the lifespan of the landfill, decreases methane emissions by an estimated 3,009 pounds annually, generates nutrient-rich soil amendment that Temple residents can utilize for their home and community gardens, and enhances flower beds that support pollinators.

To be a part of this program you can follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Stop at the Solid Waste Complex (2611 E. Ave H Building A) and grab a free food waste bin. Pick-up hours are (Monday – Friday from 8 AM - 4 PM). A valid Driver's License with proof of Temple residence is required for participation. Supplies are limited.

Step 2: Fill the bin at home from the list of “What Goes In”. Make sure to avoid “What Stays Out”. Pro Tip: If you are not fast at filling the bin or cannot get it to Solid Waste right away to empty it, storing it in a freezer will keep anything from starting to smell. We will accept frozen food waste.

Step 3: Return to Solid Waste with the full container and dump it into the collection bins for free. After being dumped, the City of Temple employee will return the bin to you.  

You can also pick up soil amendment for free at the Solid Waste Department on a first come, first serve basis Monday - Friday, 8 AM - 5 PM, or on Saturdays, 9 AM - 4 PM, at 602 Jack Baskin Drive. Bring your own container to transport the amendment, a container will not be provided.

For more information, please visit templetx.gov/foodwaste