Workshops to offer tips, resources for waste reduction, composting

The Greater Quabbin Food Alliance’s Food Waste Recovery Group is building on the success of its April workshop by offering two additional free workshops on waste reduction and composting.

Since trash capacity in Massachusetts is limited, trash disposal costs are on the rise, according to a Food Alliance press release. Meanwhile, local businesses and restaurants are finding that composting can save them money, or at least cost the same as sending it all to a landfill, with compost hauling often costing less than trash removal.

Businesses, restaurants and other organizations can learn about waste reduction and composting by attending one of the two fall workshops, offered with help from Drawdown Montague, on Nov. 6, from 5:30 to 8 p.m. at Brick & Feather Brewery, 78 11th St. in Turners Falls; and on Dec. 4, from 5:30 to 8 p.m. at Red Apple Farm, 455 Highland Ave. in Phillipston. Local solid waste experts will share free resources, local success stories, and tips and tricks, giving attendees achievable ideas to start or advance their composting and recycling efforts, according to the release.

The November seminar will focus on how businesses, restaurants, community agencies, faith-based organizations, food processors and residential facilities can reduce waste by bolstering composting and recycling efforts in both their daily operations and for regular meetings or events where additional food is provided, the release states.

Meanwhile, the December seminar will be aimed at organizers seeking to reduce waste from larger, semi-regular events including weddings, annual or semi-annual festivals and gatherings, holiday parties, etc.

Those who will share resources, tips and real life examples include: Amy Donovan from the Franklin County Solid Waste Management District; Deb Habib, director of Seeds of Solidarity; Rick Innes, owner/operator of Clear View Composting; Jodi Falk of Rachel’s Table; and Khrysti Smyth Barry, customer solutions specialist for RecyclingWorks at the Center for EcoTechnology.

At both events, a complimentary dinner will be provided; there is a $10 suggested donation. Local beer and non-alcoholic beverages will be available for purchase.

Advance registration is required, and space is limited. To register, visit: bit.ly/GQFAfoodwasteevents2019.