Turn Food Waste Into Clean Energy
Wednesday, June 18, 2025
Cambridge has been a leader in food waste diversion for decades. The City’s journey began in the 1950s, when food scraps were collected and sent to the local landfill—where pigs helped dispose of the waste. Since then, Cambridge’s program has evolved into one of the most innovative and environmentally friendly initiatives in the region.
Today, the Department of Public Works (DPW) collects about 45 tons of food waste every week. The impact goes far beyond simple waste reduction: diverting food waste supports the City’s climate goals, cuts costs, and even helps reduce rodent activity in neighborhoods.
“Curbside food waste separation is a win-win for the environment, residents, and businesses,” says Michael Orr, Recycling Director at the Cambridge Department of Public Works.
Separating food waste from the trash plays a crucial role in Cambridge’s climate efforts. First, food waste is separated out and contamination, like plastic or non-compostable materials, is removed. Next, the clean food waste is combined with organic waste and into an anaerobic digester. In the digester, natural bacteria break down the organic material, producing methane gas. The gas is captured and used to generate clean energy; energy not from fossil fuels.
The remaining solids after digestion aren’t wasted either—they are turned into nutrient-rich fertilizer. This closed-loop system reduces dependence on fossil fuels and minimizes the environmental footprint of food waste, helping Cambridge build a more sustainable future.
Another significant benefit of composting is its contribution to public health. When food waste is separated and properly disposed of, it reduces the amount of edible material left in regular trash bins. This, in turn, decreases the likelihood of rodents being attracted to residential and commercial trash.
The Curbside Food Waste program is also cost-effective. Diverting food waste from traditional trash disposal reduces landfill costs and creates savings for both the City and participating businesses. With growing success, Cambridge’s program has expanded to partner with all Cambridge Public Schools, many local pantries, and about 80 to 90 businesses.
“It saves money and helps the environment,” Orr explains.
Getting started in Cambridge is easy and free. Residents can visit the DPW office or go to the DPW website: https://www.cambridgema.gov/Services/Recycling/MaterialsRequestForm - to order a free kitchen bin, which comes with bin liners and a clear set of instructions on how to properly separate food waste.
If you’re unsure whether your building participates in the City’s curbside composting program, you can ask your landlord, or contact DPW. The City is also happy to reach out to landlords and property managers directly to help expand composting access.
One thing many people don’t realize is how many items are accepted. Cambridge’s program accepts all types of food waste—even rotten food—as well as dairy, meat, tea bags, paper towels (if they have food on them), and even crushed flowers. This wide range of acceptable materials makes it easy for residents to participate fully and make a bigger impact.
Businesses interested in partnering with the City’s curbside program can email recycle@cambridgema.gov to learn more.
Cambridge’s efforts are growing rapidly, and the City has big plans ahead.
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It saves money and helps the environment, so it’s a win-win for all. — Michael Orr, Recycling Director, Cambridge Department of Public Works
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