'Compost Now' a Huge Success!

The Seattle Public Utilities sponsored event,  Compost Now! – was an exciting FREE event that brought together buyers and sellers of compostable foodservice ware.

To help Seattle restaurants get ready for the upcoming foam ban, vendors showcased compostable foodservice ware that has been approved for use by the regional compost processor. 

Restaurateurs were able to compare availability, pricing, and performance of compostable alternatives. Resource Venture and City of Seattle representatives staffed tables and helped answer questions regarding the ban and how it affects local businesses. Cedar Grove and Waste Management were also on hand to sign businesses up for commercial compost collection and answer recycling questions.

Check out local media coverage on the event from:

King 5

Kiro 7

Seattle Times

West Seattle Blog

The first 100 businesses received a sample pack of approved compostable foodservice ware, donated by the following vendors:

Seattle restaurants, grocery stores, coffee shops and institutional cafeterias are required by law to stop using expanded polystyrene (EPS or “Styrofoam”) containers for the sale or display of food by January 1, 2009. 

You can use any non-foam alternatives, but plan ahead!  By July 1, 2010, all Seattle foodservice businesses will only be able to use compostable or recyclable^** foodservice ware. 

The following compostable alternatives were on display at Compost Now!

¨ Cold & Hot cups

¨ Straws

¨ Clamshells

¨ Bowls

¨ Sushi Trays

¨ Utensils

¨ Plates

**recyclable plastic, recyclable plastic-coated paper foodservice ware  

Why compostable? 

Compostable products allow easy one-step disposal of food waste and service ware into your compost bin.  Overall, Seattle’s waste is reduced!

Thank you to all our vendor participants:

And thank you to our event partners!