Systems library

WeCare Denali Rockland County Composting

A composting-centered circular system archetype. Composting is the “low-friction” on-ramp to organics circularity: build separation habits, build soil value, and create the platform for higher-complexity pathways over time.

Back to Systems library Propose a pilot site Policy & funding

Archetype Composting Community adoption

How this site was selected: Mapping layers pair feedstocks with infrastructure, the matrix approach (industrial/hauling, feedstock variation, pyrolysis, space/expansion) distills the strongest candidates, and the 25-50 mile coverage logic keeps proposals balanced. Read the methodology.

System diagram

Tip: open this in a new tab to zoom, then use it in meetings as a shared reference.

Composting as a wedge: When the “collection + contamination” problem is solved, the region can later add digestion, biochar blending, or nutrient recovery with far less friction.

Implementation notes

Compost works when it’s boringly reliable. These prompts are about operational stability: feedstock quality, markets, siting, and neighborhood trust.

Questions to answer

What is the inbound stream mix (residential, commercial, municipal), and what contamination rate is expected-
What collection behavior change is required (bins, signage, hauler routes, enforcement, education)-
Where will finished compost go (farms, landscaping, municipal land restoration, soil projects)-
What odor / truck traffic concerns must be addressed proactively with neighbors and EJ stakeholders-

Best next step

If there’s an existing or proposed compost site in your area, submit it via Propose a pilot site. Include the operator/municipal contact, current throughput, and any known community concerns.

Propose this archetype Resources hub

For deeper context, download the core HVB reports in the Resources hub.

Site imagery

Reference photos from the Circular Biogas Systems proposal appendix for this location.

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Biosolids flow snapshot

This 2015 snapshot shows Rockland County's biosolids moving through landfill, hauling, and land application channels. Use it to frame constraints before you size anything.

HVB does not support co-digestion of sewage sludge with food waste; treat this as routing context and a guardrails trigger.

Read Rockland biosolids brief Open image

Evidence & policy context

Data & maps hub — ground each archetype in the baseline data, flows, and county briefs before pitching it.
Policy & funding hub — choose the right story (CLCPA, diversion, EJ) for this system.
CLCPA brief — tie the archetype into the state’s climate accountability framework.
Food waste law brief — highlight the diversion/compliance rationale when organics are on the route.