Thurston County
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:     Thursday, August 10, 2006

Contact:       Michelle Andrews, Education and Outreach Specialist, (360) 754-3355 ext. 7676

One Day Compost Bin Sale

OLYMPIA -- Thurston County Solid Waste will be selling Green Cone bins for $25 each (includes tax) on August 30, 2006 from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. at 3400 Mottman Road in Tumwater.  The sale is on a first-come, first-served basis since there is a limited amount of Green Cone bins available.  There is no pre-registration.  Green Cones are “food digesters” that are placed partially in the ground.  Food waste is placed into the bin, and it breaks down naturally.  The Green Cone reduces food waste to its natural components of water, carbon dioxide and a small residue.  This is a very simple bin for those who aren’t interested in producing compost, but would like to reduce their food waste.  According to the manufacturer, the solar-heated garden unit takes all cooked and uncooked food waste including meat, fish, bones, dairy products, vegetable and fruit.  The cone measures approximately 3 feet tall by 2 ½ feet wide.  For more information about the Green Cone visit www.greencone.com/home.asp (click on the USA flag on the left column).

By using a food waste bin, residents and most businesses can reduce their garbage substantially.  The county has determined that approximately 18% of residential garbage is food waste, most of which could be composted or digested in a fully enclosed bin, such as the Green Cone.  The county also sells Biostack and Earth Machine bins at www.composters.com/thurstoncounty or mail-order forms are available by calling the county at (360) 357-2491.  These two bins also compost food waste, but it is necessary to attach a sheet of galvanized mesh with holes ½” or smaller to the bottom to prevent rodents from entering the bin.  Green Cones (along with Biostack bins) are also sold at compost workshops.  For workshop details, call (360) 754-2953.