Food & Compost

Meridian's Good Food to Smart Composting (GF/SC) Continuum Work Groups

GF/SC's focus is on the organic side of recycling. Avoiding wasted food has gained interest and support from our residents, our region, and all levels of government. Instead of sending food to landfills, estimated to be as much as 1/3 of available food, volunteers are working to establish healthy alternatives. If interested in learning more or helping, please contact MIEnvirons@gmail.com.

In 2022, a gleaning (food recapture) operation started at the Meridian Market to collect fresh, locally grown produce with limited, remaining shelf life from vendors. Over 5,000 pounds of food were collected and distributed through six food pantries and soup kitchens. This year, special boxes now allow customers also to purchase produce and baked goods for distribution. For more information, contact dbatten049@gmail.com.
The Township is testing the collection of food scraps at a few locations within the township. The food scraps are picked up by My Green Michigan and transported to Hammond Farms in Holt, where they are processed into compost. Community composting sites and regional composting options are also being explored.
Additional outreach and education are also being offered at the Meridian Farmers Market. Volunteers with GF/SC are also willing to help schools/organizations conduct food audits to help reduce waste.

Food Scrap Recycling at the Market

The Green Meridian Team, My Green Michigan, Hammond Farms, Reclaimed by Design, and Meridian Township Farmers' Market have partnered to introduce a new opportunity - food scrap recycling. We are testing drop-off sites for food scraps to help keep them out of the landfill and turn them into valuable compost. Currently, there are three locations (available during their hours of operation):

1) Meridian Marketplace on the Green (suggested $1/gal. donation)

2) Hammond Farms (small fee)

3) Meridian Recycling Center ($5 per five-gallon bucket)

Restrictions:

No Plastic, metal, or other non-organic materials
“Compostable Plastic” can be brought separately
No waxed paper cartons or containers

Allowed Items:

Leftover produce
Food cooked/raw in any form
Paper napkins & paper towel
Cardboard/compostable to-go containers
BPI Certified compostable ware

Gleaning Initiative

Meridian Gleaners is a team of volunteers who work with market vendors, community agencies (including local food pantries and kitchens), and the public to help feed those in need. Please contact suez1166@gmail.com or dbatten049@gmail.com for more information.

Compost Bin/Rain Barrel Sale & Information

The Green Meridian Team is pleased to provide occasional compost bin and rain barrel sales.

Backyard composting is an excellent way to reduce trash going to landfills and recycle your yard waste into a valuable soil conditioner or mulch. Rain barrels reduce water costs, reduce run-off, and provide water for plants and gardens.

Compost bins, rain barrels, and accessories are available to Meridian Township residents at a reduced price.

Compost Bin & Rain Barrel Sale Website (add your name to a waiting list for the next sale!)

Earth Day Food Waste Audit

Members of the Meridian "Good Food to Smart Recycling" Group conducted a recycling audit with Williamston Middle School on Earth Day, with assistance from Hammond Farms and My Green Michigan.

The goal is to encourage management of waste by separating inorganic from organic (food scraps), in order to keep the latter out of landfill and into composted rich soil for our gardens.

Food Waste Audit Photos

For more information about this initiative, contact laffertypllc@gmail.com.