The County has launched a Food Scraps Recycling Drop-Offs program at three farmers markets to promote composting. The initiative, led by the County’s Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), allows residents to recycle food scraps at designated drop-off locations.
Residents can bring various food scraps, including bread, grains, coffee grounds (without filters), cooked food, dairy products, eggshells, fruit and vegetable scraps, and even meat, fish, and bones, to the drop-off sites.
The Food Scraps Recycling Drop-Offs are available year-round during farmers market hours at these locations:
- Bethesda Central Farmers Market: Sundays, 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m., 7600 Arlington Road
- Downtown Silver Spring Market: Saturdays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., 1 Veterans Plaza
- Olney Farmers and Artists Market: Sundays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., Maryland Route 108 and Prince Phillip Drive
The seasonal Derwood Market also has a food scraps drop-off. The market reopens in April 2025.
DEP Director Jon Monger emphasized that the program supports Montgomery County’s efforts to reduce food waste. “That progress starts with each of us in our own homes and kitchens,” he said. “By keeping food scraps out of the trash, we help the County achieve its zero-waste goal and create a cleaner environment.”
For more information about food scraps recycling, visit the DEP’s website.
Photo courtesy Montgomery County DEP
