Binghamton Composting Program Aims To Cut Waste And Boost Sustainability

Thursday, June 12, 2025, details were announced for a new composting initiative according to Binghamton Mayor Jared Kraham.

This initiative is in conjunction with VINES, Cornell Cooperative Extension of Broome County, and the Conrad and Virginia Klee Foundation.

There are three components to this new programming, according to officials, supported by $215,000 in grant funding to expand composing in the City of Binghamton.

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One component includes VINES, creating a community composting system at its Urban Farm in Binghamton, processing up to 1,000 pounds of food waste per week to grow almost 7,000 pounds of food annually.

The program will upgrade existing composting systems at 15 community gardens to handle more waste, and Cornell Cooperative Extension of Broome County will lead outreach and education efforts, encouraging Binghamton residents to start composting in their backyards.

Binghamton continues to lead on sustainability and the environment. A citywide composting program was a key goal outlined in our Climate Action Plan, as part of reducing greenhouse gas emissions. By cutting back on how much waste goes to the landfill and enriching our soil to support local food production, we’re advancing broader efforts to help the environment and build a cleaner, greener Binghamton. I appreciate the support of our funders and nonprofit partners. - City of Binghamton Mayor Jared Kraham

The project aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and educate the community on composting and sustainable food systems.

The timeframe for the project is for this summer, with implementation beginning this fall (2025).

For more information and to get involved, visit the VINES Facebook page or follow on Instagram @vinesgardens.