Top:  Earth Matter, a BPI microgrant recipient, composts source separated food scraps from households and zero waste events. Photo courtesy of Earth Matter NY

In September 2024, BPI launched a Composting Microgrants initiative with the aim to “fund food scrap programs that incorporate compostable products, thereby increasing awareness of successful composting stories.” BPI received 77 applications for a total funding request of over $300,000. Ultimately, $47,210 of funding was awarded to 12 projects. “Awarded projects span a wide range of activities designed to strengthen community composting, including mobile branding and visibility, equipment to improve operations, and public education and behavior change,” said BPI. Four projects used the funding to make vehicle wraps for “advertising and awareness.” In terms of infrastructure, Loving Earth Compost LLC installed an in-vessel system, Renüable purchased a sifter to expand processing volume and product quality, Farmer Pirates Compost purchased a trommel screen, and Music Mountain Compost installed fencing around its site. Among the awardees in the public education and behavioral change category is Earth Matter in New York City, which used the grant funds to create a PSA (public service ad) video and poster to educate visitors on proper sorting on Governors Island.