PRESS RELEASE

 

For immediate release:
February 27. 2024 

For more information, contact: 
Britt Garner, Public Information Officer 
Department of the Environment 
BGarner@co.pg.md.us; 301-883-5985

 

Prince George’s County Wins “Organics Diversion Program of the Year” Award

Recognized for expanding free curbside composting program PGC Composts

Largo, Maryland — Prince George’s County has been honored with the “Organics Diversion Program of the Year” award from the United States Composting Council (USCC), at its annual conference and tradeshow, COMPOST2024. Jessica Moore, Manager of the Recycling Section, accepted the award on behalf of the Department of the Environment (DoE) in Daytona Beach, Florida. The USCC is a national organization dedicated to advancing composting and organic recycling. Their annual awards recognize outstanding achievements in waste diversion, composting, and soil health across the country.

“This award is a testament to the dedication of our residents and community partners,” said Prince George’s County Executive Angela Alsobrooks. “Through innovative programs and collaborative efforts, we are Prince George’s Proud to create a greener, healthier, and more sustainable future.”

The award celebrates the County’s outstanding efforts in diverting organic waste away from landfills and promoting environmentally responsible practices by expanding the curbside composting program, PGC Composts, to over 172,816 households. The County’s initiatives have set a new standard for organic waste diversion. From community composting to educational campaigns, Prince George’s County has consistently pushed the envelope to reduce organic waste and promote composting. In 2019, DoE was awarded Compost Facility of the Year, Large-Scale, by the USSC.  This award is presented to a commercial-scale US composting facility, public or private, which has displayed excellence in compost production, marketing/distribution, has been in operation for a minimum of 3 years, and meets all regulatory compliance.

“Composting is a critical factor in the County’s fight against climate change,” said Andrea Crooms, Director of the Department of the Environment. “Reducing gashouse emissions and keeping methane-emitting materials out of the landfill is beneficial in our efforts to mitigate climate change.”

The County’s commitment to educating residents about the benefits of composting and organic waste reduction has been commendable. Workshops, webinars, and outreach events have empowered citizens to participate in the program actively. Partnerships with schools and community organizations have been instrumental in the program's success. Prince George’s County has created a robust network committed to sustainable waste management by working together.

For more information on the expanded curbside composting program, PGC Composts, visit mypgc.us/compost. 

 

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