Building Scalable Municipal Food Waste Drop-Off Programs

00:00: Introduction & Panelist Welcome 03:10: Jennifer Heaton-Jones – HRRA 23:10: Natalie Antenucci Şentürk – Rust Belt Riders Q&A: 35:30 Food waste drop-off programs aren’t just about collecting scraps, they’re about creating a system that’s convenient, affordable, and built to scale. In this webinar, Jennifer Heaton-Jones from HRRA and Natalie Antenucci Senturk from Rust Belt Riders share lessons from successful municipal food waste programs across Connecticut and Ohio. Drop-off programs can cost dramatically less than curbside collection Convenience is critical for participation and long-term success Controlled access and direct education help keep contamination below 2% Local processing can transform program economics Pay-As-You-Throw systems can significantly increase food waste diversion Data and resident advocacy help secure municipal funding and expansion Key takeaway: The most successful organics programs combine convenience, accountability, and sustainable economics. Start small, prove demand, and build a system that can scale.