We take BPI-certified compostable materials at our facility. Utilize the database below to see if your cup, plate, bowl, or other service ware is BPI certified!

Backyard Composting - Links

Service Collection Area Includes


City of Athens, Chauncey, The Plains, Nelsonville, and surrounding areas. 



What does the food waste turn into?


Food Waste is mixed collected and brought to AHRC's compost facility at 5991 Industrial Drive, Athens Ohio and mixed with other woody (wood chips) and non-woody (leaves, grass clippings) organic matter until a certain volume is reached. Once the desired volume (40-60 cubic yards) is reached, the mix is put in a bin for the first stage of the process (see bins in background of picture at top of this page). After one month it is turned by placing it the next bin. This turning introduces more oxygen and assures proper mixed of the material. After another month in the second bin, the materials is ready to be removed from the bin and is ready for screening (see Instagram video). Both bins have a blower system which also helps aerate the materials. Once the organic material is screened to remove larger size pieces, it can be sold as soil amendment or combined with other materials to create different soil mixtures for various purposes. 

Screening one of the final products. #AHRC #AHRCorganics #compost #zeroeaste #foodwaste

A video posted by Athens-Hocking Recycling (@ahrecycling) on

How do I sign up ?


​This service is currently only available in the City of Athens, The Plains, Nelsonville, and Chauncey. If you live in or close to these areas (or you business is ) fill out the form below. 

  • 26 million tons generated annually
  • 3rd largest segment of the waste stream
  • Comprises 90% of Restaurants and Supermarkets waste stream
  • A typical household generates up to 475 pounds per year. 
  • Backyard composting or participation in a compost collection service can help to prevent food waste going to the landfill. ​

AHRC's Compost Facility

Quick Facts about Food Waste

How does this service work?


Residences and businesses can sign up compost material collection. Please refer to service levels described to left. 


AHRC uses 5-gallon and 35-gallon containers for collection of food waste for residential and commercial applications where we collect the material from your location. We also offer a drop-off locations at AHRC's compost facility at 5991 Industrial Dr.

For residences and businesses alike, collect your food scraps and place in a container for weekly collection. 

Service Levels


​Individual Household or Business

  • Residential Weekly Pickup, $25.40 per month, The Plains, Nelsonville, Chauncey, Athens Township
  • Business Weekly Pickup, $27.68 per month, The Plains, Nelsonville, Chauncey, Athens Township
  • Residential Weekly Pickup, $9.84 per month, inside the City of Athens
  • See signup sheet below more options and pricing


Drop-Off at 5991 Industrial Drive, Athens Ohio

  • ​Free, with your own bucket or container




Athens-Hocking Recycling Centers, Inc.