November 3, 2025
Composting is the natural process of recycling organic matter, such as leaves and food scraps, into a valuable fertilizer that can enrich soil and plants. Anything that grows decomposes eventually; composting speeds up the process by providing an ideal environment for bacteria, fungi, and other decomposing organisms to do their work. The benefits of composting include reducing the amount of waste going to landfills as well as decreasing the amount of methane released from organic matter decomposing. Composting also improves soil health and lessens erosion by providing primary nutrients needed by crops.
As part of Northern's commitment to sustainability, Dining Services has been partnering with Partridge Creek Compost to divert food waste from the university for use in creating compost. NMU sends, on average, 400 pounds of coffee grounds, eggshells, vegetable trimmings, and other forms of food waste created for composting weekly, before any interaction with the consumer. Post-consumer NMU sends 10,000 to 12,000 pounds of material per month to be composted.
NMU students off-campus who are looking for curbside compost pick-up can receive services at a discounted rate through Partridge Creek Compost. Check out their composting programs here!
