Composting

Composting

black bear compost bins

UVA is continually expanding composting access throughout Grounds to ensure the University meets our ambitious waste reduction goal. 

Composting diverts food waste and other organic materials from the landfill, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and returning nutrients back to the soil.

UVA works with Black Bear Composting, a Charlottesville-based company, to collect organic material and other compostable items. All material is composted at the company’s facility in nearby Augusta County, Va. Black Bear collects: 

bpi and pla logos
  • Food waste -- including produce, dairy, meat, bones, and more
  • Uncoated paper -- including napkins, paper towels, paper bags, and paper plates
  • Certified compostable wares – Check to see if your to-go container, cup, bowl or utensils are compostable. Look for the BPI Certified logo or “PLA 7” recycling code. 

 

 

Composting Services

On Grounds
Zero Waste Stations

Students, staff and faculty can find 24/7 accessible compost bins throughout the year. These bins should only be used for materials generated on Grounds.

  • McIntire Amphitheater
  • Observatory Hill
UVA Dine

You can find compost bins at West Range Café and Fine Arts Café. Bring your compostable clamshell, leftover food, or other compostable items during café hours. All food waste generated by the UVA Dining ing halls is composted. 

Dorms

Students living in the following residential buildings have continual access to compost bins: 

  • International Residence College 
  • Hereford College 
  • Brown College 
  • The Lawn
Workplace

Faculty and staff can learn more about bringing composting into the workplace by emailing [email protected].

Zero Waste Events

Interested in composting at your next event? Head over to our Zero Waste Events page to learn more.

Zero Waste Events

Off Grounds
  • Charlottesville City Market  Each Saturday from April to October, the Charlottesville City Market has compost drop-off stations for those who’d like to participate. They also provide compostable bags free of charge.
  • McIntire Recycling Center  Drop off compostables during standard facility hours.
  • Black Bear Composting  Join the Black Bear Residential Composting program. They’ll provide a bin or tote (depending on your needs) and will regularly pick-up the compost for a monthly fee.