Please do not put plastic bags of any kind into the food compost bins at the Eastham Transfer Station — if plastic is found, Black Earth Compost will refuse to collect the load. Even “biodegradable” or “plant-based” plastic bags are not accepted unless they are certified compostable. Only bags or containers labeled with official certification logos from BPI, TÜV, or CMA are allowed, as these are designed to fully break down in industrial composting systems.
Paper bags are also accepted and a great plastic-free option for lining your countertop bin or holding food scraps. They break down naturally and won’t contaminate the compost. You can even use paper grocery bags, takeout bags, or small lunch bags — just be sure they’re not waxed or coated with plastic.
Using the right bags helps keep Eastham’s compost clean and ensures that every load can be turned into nutrient-rich soil instead of being rejected and wasted.