BGSU students now have an opportunity to support community sustainability by participating in the city’s food waste composting program. The initiative, open to all residents, allows students to drop off their food waste at designated locations throughout Bowling Green.

“Students can get involved by taking their food waste to the drop-off,” says Rachel Sizer, Bowling Green’s Sustainability Coordinator. “Food can be brought in whatever receptacle students have, including BPI-certified compostable bags.”

Managed by Go ZERO, a local food waste compost courier, the program transports compostable waste to Andre Farms, a Class II composting facility in Wauseon, Ohio.

Go ZERO’s service operates year-round, as composting naturally generates heat to maintain decomposition, even in cold weather. Sizer noted cooler temperatures help reduce odors and deter pests, making it an ideal season for increased participation.

“Composting isn’t impacted by winter weather,” Sizer said.

Bowling Green offers students more ways to engage with sustainability. Curbside recycling services are available, and Bowling Green Parks and Recreation provides volunteer opportunities for hands-on community involvement.

For those looking to make a difference on campus, groups are exploring ways to bring food waste drop-off sites closer to students, with updates expected as the initiative progresses. Additionally, as the season changes, Sizer highlighted the city’s pumpkin composting option, available through the yard waste drop-off on Tarragon Drive.

“We ask that no pumpkins go to the food waste composting as it can be overwhelming for the containers,” she said. “Instead, all collected pumpkins are composted through the Wood County Landfill’s yard waste compost program.”

For more information on Bowling Green’s food waste program or to get involved in community sustainability efforts, scan the QR code.