Backyard compost bins can divert an average of 500 pounds of organic waste per household from landfills each year. To help reduce waste, Wake County is offering discounted compost bins. You can purchase the Earth Machine compost bin through this program at 50% below retail cost, for just $60.
Each year in May, we offer a compost bin sale in celebration of International Compost Awareness Week. You do not need to be a Wake County resident to order a compost bin, but you must be able to pick it up in Raleigh, NC (delivery is not available).
How does the sale work?
During the month of May, discounted compost bins and composting accessories are available for purchase through our vendor, BrandBuilders, LLC. At the beginning of June, orders are prepared for shipping. By mid-June, customers receive notice to arrange pickup.
Please note:
- We recommend checking with your HOA before ordering.
- Wake County ordinance states, "Composting shall not occur within 25 ft of a used dwelling located on adjacent property." This means keep your composter 25 ft from your neighbor's house.
- This is a special order for Wake County. Cancellations must be made prior to shipping. All sales are final after May 31.
- Wake County does not receive any revenue from the sale.
- Wake County does not make any warranty or representation regarding the Earth Machine compost bin. Purchasers must direct any questions, claims or disputes regarding their purchase to our vendor, BrandBuilders, LLC.
- If you have not received an email to pick up your order by mid-June, please contact us.
- We do not store orders indefinitely. Orders not picked up by July 31 will be donated for educational purposes.
Backyard Composting
Why Compost in a Bin?
Compost bins, such as the Earth Machine, have features that allow for greater control over the composting and decomposition process, especially for those new to composting or composting in an urban setting. Features to look for in a good compost bin include:
- UV stabilizers added to resist weathering
- Pest-resistant lid
- Ventilation to allow air to enter
- Conical shape for easier compost removal
- Harvest door for compost removal
Why Compost?
About 34% of the average trash can is food and yard waste that can be composted. Wake County wants to help residents compost at home so that, together, we can reduce the amount of waste going to landfills. Other benefits of composting include:
- Enriches soil; helps soil retain moisture, makes soil easier to dig, helps plants and lawns grow bigger and stronger, and suppresses plant diseases and pests
- Reduces the need for watering, artificial fertilizers and chemical pesticides
- Reduces methane emissions from landfills and lowers your carbon footprint
- Serves as a useful educational tool to teach children about the nutrient cycle and natural resource conservation
Get Help Composting
Along with a "Guide to Home Composting" handbook you receive when you purchase an Earth Machine, we also provide additional guidance and support for those new to composting:
- Download our Cheat Sheet on Backyard Composting to learn if it's right for you.
- Download our full Guide to Backyard Composting if you want to learn more.
- Schedule a presentation with us on "Backyard Composting".
- Watch our videos on composting (see below).
Videos on Composting