Landfills emit deadly greenhouse gases that destroy our ozone layer and pollute the air we breathe.  One of the most dangerous of these gases is methane.  Each year, billions of tons of food waste are added to landfills.  Normally, when food waste is left over a long period of time, it will naturally break down and turn into soil via a process known as biodegradation.  However, when food waste is added to the landfill, it can no longer safely biodegrade.  Instead, it becomes inseparable from the other trash and releases methane into our atmosphere.  However, there is a solution -- composting!

 

When food waste is composted, it is kept separate from inorganic trash.  This allows it to be safely converted into fertile soil.  The benefits of composting are significant.  It is eco-friendly, provides free soil, and saves money on trash services.  However, composting is traditionally only done in suburban and rural areas across the country, despite the fact that most of our food waste comes from cities.  This is why students at the Engineering and Science University Magnet school started WASTEless.

 

WASTEless is a company committed to increasing access to composting for city residents.  We have created an in-vessel composting unit, with the exterior of a dumpster.  This composter has been created to meet the needs of our consumers: city restaurants and companies. Food is internally shredded, tilled, and watered, until fresh soil is produced at the end of the process.  The food waste is safe from rodents and other infestations, and doesn’t release a pungent smell like traditional compost piles.  

 

Our team is producing 3D models, animations, commercials, and PSAs to spread awareness about the lack of composting in cities.  We have created a comprehensive business plan that shows the growing opportunity for a product.  Our product is poised to have a massive impact on cities throughout the United States, and we intend to diligently work to make this a reality, and establish a brighter greener society for future generations.