Backyard compost bins can divert on average of 500 lbs. of organic waste per household from landfill each year. To help reduce waste sent to landfill Wake County is offering discounted compost bins. You can purchase the Earth Machine compost bin through this program at 50% below the retail cost, for just $55.
Every year, during the entire month of May we offer a compost bin sale, in celebration of International Compost Awareness Week. You do not need to be a resident of Wake County to preorder a compost bin, but you must be prepared to pick up in Raleigh, NC (delivery is not included). Sign up below to receive an email from Wake County Government when the next compost bin sale launches.
How Does the Pre-Order Sale Work?
During the month of May, compost bins and accessories are available for purchase through our vendor, BrandBuilders, LLC. After the sale ends, orders are prepared for shipping. By mid-June customers receive an email to arrange pickup, emails are serviced by Constant Contact (check junk/spam folders).
Please Note:
- We recommend checking with your Home Owners Association prior to purchasing a compost bin.
- Wake County does not make any warranty or representation, expressed or implied, regarding the Earth Machine compost bin. Purchasers must direct any questions, claims or disputes regarding their purchase to BrandBuilders, LLC.
- Cancellations must be made by May 31 (prior to shipping), no exceptions.
- We do not store orders indefinitely. Orders not picked up by July 31 will be donated for educational purposes, no exceptions.
Backyard Composting
Why Compost in a Bin?
Compost bins, such as the Earth Machine have features that allow for greater control over the process of composting and decomposition, especially for those new to composting or composting in an urban setting. Features to look for in a good compost bin, include:
- UV stabilizers added to resist weathering
- Pest-resistant lid
- Ventilation to allow air to enter
- Conical shape for easier compost removal
- Harvest door for compost removal
Why Compost?
About 34% of the average trash can is food and yard waste that can be composted. Wake County wants to help residents compost at home, so that together, we can reduce the amount of waste going to landfill. Other benefits of composting include:
- Enriches soil; helps soil retain moisture, makes soil easier to dig, helps plants and lawns grow bigger and stronger, and suppresses plant diseases and pests
- Reduces the need for watering, artificial fertilizers, and chemical pesticides
- Reduces methane emissions from landfills and lowers your carbon footprint
- Serves as a useful educational tool to teach children about the nutrient cycle, and natural resource conservation
Get Help Composting
Along with a "Guide to Home Composting" handbook you receive when you purchase an Earth Machine, we also provide additional guidance and support for those new to composting:
- Download our Cheat Sheet on Backyard Composting, to learn if it's right for you.
- Download our full guide to Composting at Home, if you want to learn more.
- Schedule a presentation with us on "Backyard Composting".
- Watch our videos on composting (see below)
Videos on Composting
Watch this video on how to compost at home
Watch this video on how to assemble your Earth Machine