Hello fellow zero-wasters, Dundee patrons, Omaha eco-warriors, friends, family, etc! Some of you have heard me talking about offering a community compost program partnering with local start-up Hillside Solutions. I was busy assessing the best way to offer this service to customers (i.e., subscription program, “pay-as-you-go”, etc.) and in the end I decided to offer it for FREE as an Exist Green customer perk!
When the store is open, customers will be able to close-the-loop of a zero waste lifestyle by combining compost drop-off while refilling and restocking eco-friendly essentials for their home. Simply come find myself (ask for Leigh) or an associate to open up the compost bin for you.
What compostable materials will be accepted?
Examples of accepted items include:
- food waste
- hair and nail clippings
- pet waste (in compostable bags)
- soiled (unwaxed) paper
- tissue paper
- lint from dryer (as long as it is primarily natural fabrics such as cotton, linen, hemp, etc.)
- single use products labelled “commercially compostable”
At this time (and likely for the distant future), Exist Green is not able to collect yard waste.
If you have a yard, try using the yard waste throughout the yard or to start your own compost pile! You can still bring commercially-compostable materials to Exist Green, such as compostable “plastics” and animal products that aren’t very successful in backyard compost piles.
For apartment dwellers, we will accept small houseplant cuttings, etc. (within reason).
Where will the Compost Go?
Hillside Solutions picks it up for processing in Gretna once a week. Your compost will be alongside organic resources from the Omaha Henry Doorly Zoo, local restaurants, and even some local area schools! Visit Hillside Solutions website to find out more about their process.
So why am I already advertising the program when the store isn’t even open yet?
I am already paying for the service and want to share with my neighbors and future customers! You can often find me at the future shop location (4914 Underwood Avenue, Suite A) in Dundee. So either come find me there or schedule a time with me through email ([email protected]).
When is the store going to open anyway?
All I can say is good things take time – and I’m learning a lot along the way! But – I promise things are happening and I’m getting a bit closer every day! I can’t wait until I can show you my vision coming to life!
Leigh Neary, Owner, Exist Green
Ask me Anything – [email protected]