The County transports an average of 780 tonnes of organic waste every year, usually to Belleville, at a cost of $300,000.

Albert Paschkowiak, Supervisor of Environmental Services, noted that annual price tag will grow with the population. A County-operated composting facility would control costs, reduce methane emissions, and supply  top quality compost to gardeners. 

While financial analysis is a key part of the study, the County is not cutting corners. Mr. Paschkowiak emphasized that the right technology – not the cheapest one – will make all the difference in reducing impact on the environment. 

The study recommends that the new composing facility use covered aerated static piles, a technology that circulates organic waste, covered by a tarp until it is mature compost. The banks would be set on concrete pads to prevent seeping. 

Mr. Paschkowiak was quick to allay concerns about what he called “the elephant in the room” — smell. The recommended technology includes a proprietary tarp that releases air while trapping odour inside. 

“This is a very small scale,” he assured local residents. Only 1.5 acres of the 9-acre property would be operational, maintaining distance from the neighbours. One or two trucks would pass through daily. 

The study also focuses on the opportunity for creation, not just disposal. Tanya Bogoslowki, an engineer at the consulting firm GHD, walked the audience through the Ontario compost quality-rating system. The plan is to produce grade AA —the highest quality rating — compost to be distributed across the County. 

“It will be safe enough for your vegetable garden,” said Mr. Paschkowiak. 

When organic waste breaks down in a landfill it produces methane, a potent greenhouse gas contributing to climate change. The green bin program will help to meet waste diversion targets. The process of turning waste into compost in an aerated static pile produces zero methane. 

A cost-benefit analysis and consultation with the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks is the next step before presenting the final plan to Council.

Residents have until the end of November to submit comments on the proposed plans through the Have Your Say portal, or email Environmental Services and Sustainability at the County.