Spring is here, and with it comes a perfect opportunity to dig into sustainability—literally. This year, WCC’s Sustainable Materials Management Programs are proud to celebrate International Compost Awareness Week (May 3–9) with the harvesting of our Worm Composting System. There will be hands-on learning opportunities, and a chance to see composting in action right here on campus.
Why Composting Matters
Organized by the Composting Council Research and Education Foundation, International Compost Awareness Week is the largest education initiative dedicated to composting. It highlights how composting:
- Reduces waste to landfill
- Improves soil health
- Supports climate resilience
- Turns everyday food scraps into valuable resources
It’s a simple action with a powerful impact—and WCC is making it visible and accessible for our campus community.
Sustainability in Action at WCC
WCC’s on-campus worm composting system is a key part of our sustainable materials management program. Using red wiggler worms, food waste is transformed into nutrient-rich compost that supports grow programs on campus and soil health.
Drop-In Worm Harvest Sessions (Mon–Thurs)
Come experience composting up close during our worm pit harvest week!
Monday – Thursday (May 4–7)
Drop in between 12:30 PM – 2:00 PM. Find us behind the Hoop House & Henry Landau Building.
Stop by anytime during these sessions to:
- Watch a live worm harvest
- Learn how food waste becomes compost
- Ask questions about starting your own compost system
- Discover how WCC manages organic waste sustainably
Good to know:
- Harvests are weather-dependent (warm, sunny conditions required) If the weather is wet we won’t be harvesting.
- Please wear closed-toe shoes
- Questions? Email: [email protected]
Guided Tour with Washtenaw County (Friday Event)
We’re excited to partner with Washtenaw County for their celebrations of International Compost Awareness Week with a special guided tour of the WCC worm pits which is open to the wider community:
Friday, May 8
1:30 PM
WCC Campus
Advance registration is required for this event.
Explore Composting Across Washtenaw County
WCC’s events are just one part of a broader celebration. Washtenaw County is hosting a full week of composting education, outreach, and activities for residents of all ages. It’s a great chance to connect with local sustainability efforts and learn practical ways to reduce waste.
Discover Something New on Campus
Whether you’re a student, staff member, or community visitor, International Compost Awareness Week is a great time to:
- See a unique sustainability system in action
- Learn practical composting skills
- Connect with local environmental initiatives
- Engage with WCC’s commitment to sustainability and resource recovery
This is your chance to experience something new happening just behind the scenes.
Join Us!
Come by for a drop-in session, sign up for the guided tour, and be part of a growing movement to reduce waste and build healthier soils.
Let’s turn waste into something meaningful—together.
Tags: Recycling, Sustainability