We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to providing free composting services in New Jersey, with plans to expand to the rest of the United States in the future.
What services does Torus offer?
When you sign up, we deliver a 5-gallon Torus bucket and compostable bag liners to your doorstep within a week.
Which areas does Torus currently serve?
Torus offers free compost pickup in select areas of Central New Jersey. Check the locations we serve for the full list. We’re continuously working to expand our service area.
How can I volunteer with Torus?
Torus is entirely student-led and volunteer-powered. If you’d like to help with deliveries, events, and community outreach, we’d love to have you. Visit our volunteer page or email torusfoodwaste@gmail.com to get started.
What can be placed in the bucket?
Please refer to our Acceptable Food Waste page for a detailed list of items that can be composted.
Want more bags?
You can buy the compostable bags we recommend here.
How can I refer others to Torus?
Help us grow by referring friends, family, or community members. Share our signup form or website link and encourage them to join our mission.
How is the service free?
We are funded primarily through tax-deductible donations and grants, which allow us to offer free compost pickups. There is a $10 refundable bucket deposit to show your commitment. If you know of any available grants or would like to support us further, please contact us.
Why are donations important to Torus?
Donations are vital to maintaining our free service. While others charge up to $20 per pickup, your contributions keep our service accessible to everyone.
Have a grant opportunity?
Torus is actively seeking grants of any size. Please reach out to torusfoodwaste@gmail.com, and you can expect a reply as soon as we can. We look forward to working with you!
Where is the compost taken?
The collected food waste is delivered to a state-of-the-art facility, Trenton Renewables, where it is turned into biogas. This process allows us to accept more types of food waste than many other composting services.
Can I drop off food waste myself?
Currently, individual drop-offs are not allowed at the Trenton Renewables facility. We consolidate food waste from households and businesses to enable efficient processing.
How do I request an extra bucket?
If you need an extra bucket, contact us and we’ll arrange delivery as soon as possible.
How do I ensure my compost is picked up on time?
We send a reminder email before each scheduled pickup. Please confirm that your bucket is placed outside by the specified time to minimize missed pickups.
What if I go on vacation or can't leave my bucket out?
If you’re unable to leave your bucket out on the scheduled pickup day, please let us know. We can pause service for you. Just email us, and we’ll ensure your compost pickup is resumed when you return.
How can my community join Torus?
If twenty or more households in your community express interest outside our current service area, we’ll provide each with a bucket and compostable bags. Bi-weekly pickups will be arranged, and the service will remain free. A $10 refundable bucket deposit applies. Buckets will be delivered once ten households are reached within a 2-mile radius.
I still have another question.
Please visit our contact page, and we'll reply as soon as we can.
