Composting

Composting 101 Guide | Accepted Items vs. Unaccepted Items Infographic | Register for Compost Collection Program Here

Kiawah Island residents can recycle food scraps for FREE at participating compost collection sites on the island. The food scraps are then sent to the Bees Ferry Compost Facility, instead of the landfill, to be recycled into compost.

What is composting?
Composting is the natural process of recycling organic matter, such as food scraps, into a valuable soil amendment. The resulting decomposed matter is called compost. It is rich in nutrients and can be used as a natural fertilizer.

What are the benefits of composting?

Cuts down on trash and expenses. The Charleston region throws away more than 30,000 tons of food scraps each year and food scraps make up one quarter of the collected garbage. Composting saves space and taxpayer money needed for disposal in landfills.
Combats climate change. Food waste recycling will help meet area Climate Action Plan goals, reducing greenhouse gas emissions from landfills and protecting our air and water from pollution to fight climate change.
Protects against flooding. Compost nourishes soil for healthier parks and gardens and increases stormwater absorption capacity.
Saves plants and animals. Compost reduces the need for expensive and polluting chemical fertilizers, makes plants healthier, and can be used without harming wildlife or ecosystem health.

Does Kiawah Island have compost collection sites?
Yes, Kiawah Island has a total of two compost collection sites:

Town Hall (4475 Betsy Kerrison Pkwy)
Kestrel Court Recycling Center

What kind of food items should I drop off at these sites?

How do I get access to the compost collection sites on Kiawah?
Kiawah Island residents must register their household and successfully complete a brief training through this form. Upon registering, you will receive additional information and an access code which is required to drop off items at the compost collection sites.

I have successfully completed the training and have my access code, now what?
1. COLLECT food scraps in a sealed container or store in a freezer.
2. DROP OFF your food scraps at a nearby collection site. Use your special access code to unlock compost bin.
3. RINSE your container.
4. REPEAT!