Guide to Composting at Sports Venues

The guide, produced by the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC), outlines strategies for implementing composting programs at sports venues to address food and yard waste management.

It highlights the ecological, economic, and social benefits of diverting organic waste from landfills and incinerators. Methane emissions from decomposing organic waste in landfills are a significant environmental concern, as methane is a potent greenhouse gas. Composting mitigates this issue while producing valuable soil amendments that enhance soil quality and reduce reliance on chemical fertilizers.

Some of the key findings include the substantial amount of food and yard waste generated in the U.S., with only a small fraction currently composted. Case studies, such as the Seattle Mariners and the San Francisco Giants, demonstrate the effectiveness of well-planned composting programs in achieving high waste diversion rates, reducing costs, and engaging fans. The recommendations cover auditing waste streams, collaborating with haulers, and ensuring staff and fan participation through clear signage and training.

Some of the barriers to composting include contamination from non-compostable materials such as plastics, highlighting the need for better packaging designs and public-private investments in composting infrastructure. The guide also encourages exploring on-site options such as aerobic composting, anaerobic digestion, and vermicomposting, depending on space and resources. Collaboration with local organizations and municipalities is recommended to develop broader composting solutions.