UCSB offers a compost service for both pre and post consumer food scraps and BPI-certified compostable packaging. Compost receptacles are located at major dining facilities on-campus (The Arbor, Courtyard Café, Coral Tree Café, and Buchanan Hall) and other select locations. YELLOW (and occasionally green) is the designated color for compost at UCSB.
What Can I Compost?
Food Scraps
All food scraps can be accepted in the food scraps/ compost waste stream. Accepted items include:
Vegetables/fruits (including pits and seeds)
Dairy products
Meats and seafood (including bones and shells)
Breads, pasta, and grains
Coffee grounds and tea (including filters and bags)
Service Ware
(must be certified compostable)
Food service ware that is BPI (Biodegradable Products Institute) certified compostable and meet the ASTM D-4600 standard are accepted in the food scraps/ compost waste stream. Examples of accepted items include:
BPI-certified compostable beverage bottles and bottle caps
Compostable plates, cups, and utensils
Compostable containers and clamshells
Paper Products
Paper products, both clean and soiled, can be placed in the food scraps/ compost waste stream. These items are often signified as "PLA 7." Accepted items include:
Soiled paper bags
Paper to-go boxes and pizza boxes
Waxed paper and cartons
Used tissues, paper towels & napkins
Compostable Bags
(must be certified compostable)
Compostable bags that are certified compostable and meet the ASTM D6400 standard are accepted in the food scraps/ compost waste stream.
Where Can I Compost?
Look For:
