New Orleans Compost Alliance

In June 2024, Sprout NOLA and the Office of Resilience and Sustainability, in partnership with REALCYCLE, Compost NOW, and Schmelly's Dirt Farm received a U.S. Department of Agriculture grant to expand composting in the City. This grant represents a collaborative effort between multiple organizations to advance sustainability and environmental health in New Orleans. The initiative seeks to improve soil quality, mitigate greenhouse gas emissions, and empower local communities by leveraging composting practices.

This led to the creation of the New Orleans Compost Alliance (NOCA)!

Find a food scrap drop-off site near you: 

Download the Food Scrap Drop-Off Guide here

 

New Orleans Compost Alliance's Goals:

  1. Enhance Soil Health and Reduce Greenhouse Gases:

    • Divert residential and commercial food waste from landfills.

    • Reintegrate compost into soils to promote healthier ecosystems and reduce methane emissions from decomposing organic waste in landfills.

  2. Minimize Fertilizer Reliance:

    • Provide agricultural producers with increased access to high-quality compost.

    • Limit chemical fertilizer usage, fostering sustainable agricultural practices.

  3. Support Local Businesses and Composting Initiatives:

    • Encourage local businesses to adopt composting and improved waste management practices.

    • Bolster Compost-based practices to stimulate economic growth and ecological stewardship within the community.

  4. Educate and Engage the Community:
    Increase awareness and knowledge of composting practices among New Orleans residents.

    • Empower individuals and households to actively participate in sustainable waste management solutions.

Key Features of the Grant:

  • Infrastructure Development: Investment in composting Microhubs supplies and tools to streamline waste collection and processing.

  • Education and Outreach: Workshops, training sessions, and materials to enhance understanding and adoption of composting.

  • Incentive Programs: Incentives for businesses and residents who participate in composting initiatives.

  • Community Partnerships: Collaborative opportunities for local organizations, farmers, and businesses to strengthen the network of sustainable practices in New Orleans.

Anticipated Outcomes:

  • Reduction in landfill waste and associated greenhouse gas emissions.

  • Healthier, nutrient-rich soils for local agriculture.

  • A thriving permaculture economy benefiting businesses and the broader community.

  • A more environmentally conscious and engaged population.

Get Involved: Join us in shaping a sustainable future for New Orleans! Whether you’re a farmer, business owner, or part of a community organization, there are opportunities to participate in and benefit from this initiative.

For more information or to become a partner, contact Grace Treffinger (grace.treffinger@nola.gov).