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Hello from Lisa + Andrew!
Now, lets get down to FAQ business!
First and foremost, the two biggies that everyone always wants to know about:
Does it smell?!?
This is our most frequent question/concern from people interested in composting - rest assured, we haven't encountered odour problems from any of our clients!
Does it attract pests?
We are very happy to report that, no - our service does not attract pests. In fact, one of our clients with an existing mouse population did a pest audit before implementing our service across 10 floors and again afterwards. There was absolutely no increase in the population! Try it yourself and see - email us about our great promotions!
What can I put in my Compo-Capsule??
You can put almost anything organic in your Compo-Capsule excluding meat, fish, and bones (unless you're using our communal or event services). That includes:
coffee grounds and the filter, teabags, napkins, wooden stir sticks and chopsticks, bamboo cutlery, plants and flowers, uncoated paper plates and cups (make sure they say compostable! Email us for recommended brands :D ), and of course breads, pastas, salads, fruits and pits, and eggshells. If you're wondering about an item - ask us! We're more than happy to talk shop. Click here to see a handy guide to Compo-Capsule friendly items!
Ways to make composting with Growing City even better!
Composting with Growing City is already as simple, clean and convenient as it gets - but here are some easy tips to make things even better:
- Clean out your fridge on pick-up day! (This seems pretty self explanatory, but a good tip nonetheless! )
- Surprisingly, cut flowers are the biggest culprit in regards to potential smell - who knew? Change their water regularly and make sure to put them in your bin as close to pick-up day as possible.
- Keep fruit in the fridge! Keeping these goodies on the counter is a great way to attract unwanted natural guests to hang out in your kitchen.
What type of service do you recommend for a small to medium sized business?
For a small to medium sized business we recommend you start with one 30L Compo-Capsule with once a week pick-up and take it from there. We're very flexible and are happy to create a service plan that suits your needs! The cost for once a week pick-up and full service is $25 per pick-up (essentially $100 per month)
What if our bins are filling up too quickly?
If you find that your team is filling up your bins too quickly you may need to go up a bin size or increase your pick-up frequency. We're very flexible here at Growing City, send us an email and we'll create a customized service plan to suit your growing needs!
Will you do a blog post about our cool new sustainability initiative or idea?
Yes! We'd love to hear all about what you guys are doing to keep the green growing - please send us an email and keep us up to speed with all your great ideas and initiatives!
Can I join the Growing City team?
Yes! We're looking for outgoing people to join our Compo-Caddy Team in our service division - if you're interested or know someone that is, have them send us a resume! (PS - there's some heavy lifting involved so please be ready to get sweaty. Its all about the active lifestyle y'all ;D)
Hey, we're having an event and we need volunteers - can you help us out?
Yes! We partner with a different organization or charity every month to bring our clients great community events and volunteering oportunites. If you have an event coming up that you'd like Growing City to be a part of, please send us an email. Check out some of our awesome past events!
I want to get my hands on that black gold!!
We understand - we love the stuff and so do our balcony gardens! If you're a client, send us an email and we'll hook you up on the low low. (that means on the cheap ;D )
What's the one-time rental fee about?
The one-time rental fee cover's replacement and maintenance costs. We figured if we charged it only once, it would be cheaper for our clients than charging the typical monthly bin rental fee that most other businesses do, and there you go!
Do you have a brochure that I can send to my team/property manager/boss/friend/Mom ?
Of course! Please see below for our informational PDF - it has more details on our company and composting in general. Let us know what you think!
How often are my bins emptied?
Most clients require weekly pick-up, however those needing additonal pick-ups can request a specialized program to meet their needs.
Who owns the Compo-Capsules?
The Compo-Capsules belong to Growing City and we require a one-time rental fee for the Compo-Capsule. This fee covers bin maintenance and repairs!
What are your bin sizes?
Our individualized bins come in a 50L, 30L and a 15L size. If you require a communal bin system, let us know your space parameters and we'll find the right bin for you!
When should I put my bins out for collection?
We will service your bin where you have placed it or if you prefer, you can leave the bin outside your office's front door.
What happens if my bin is damaged/stolen?
If your Compo-Capsule is damaged or in need of repair, please contact us and we'll be happy to help! If your Compo-Capsule is stolen Growing City will replace it free of charge in the first instance. If further instances occur charges may be applied for the cost of the bin and a delivery service charge.
If I need additional services, how much will this cost?
Please contact us for specialized services and events - we're excited to make a customized plan to suit your needs!
What happens if I put the wrong items into my bins?
We understand that implementing a new waste program can take some time. There will be no repercussions for contaminated food waste for the first three months of service. If the wrong material continues to go into the Compo-Capsule, a note will be left with the client explaining what caused contamination. Unfortunately, contaminated food waste will not be composted and will have to go to the landfill. A charge will be billed for every instance of contamination after the initial 3 months.
Do you service outside of Vancouver's downtown core?
Our service area is growing! Let us know where you are and we'll let you know.
What cleaner do you use?
We use a custom made, all-natural, anti-bacterial fair trade cleaner - scented with a custom Growing City blend of all-natural essential oils. If you have more questions or would like to purchase a bottle for yourself, please let us know!
What type of bags do you use to line your Compo-Capsules?
We use BioBags which are made from 100% non-GMO cornstarch and are certified compostable/biodegradable.
Are you bonded and insured?
Yes, every member of the Growing City team is bonded. We also have general liability insurance, please emailinfo@growingcity.ca for more details.
I'm a serious at-home composter and I've got some serious questions - help!
When you're looking for the best information for at-home composting, the place to start is CityFarmer.net - there you'll find amazing tips and tricks as well as educational workshops. These people also run the famous Compost Hotline (604.736.2250). They're your first stop on the road to at-home composting expertise!
Just curious, can Lisa and Andrew come talk to our Green Team?
We love meeting with Green Teams and talking about great ways to motivate the office to get more sustainable. We've got lots of ideas and we've learned great tips and tricks from all our awesome clients - we're sure a session with us will put your team on the fast track!
Are Andrew and Lisa available to speak at my event, group or school?
Yes, Lisa and Andrew are always open to working within the community to promote Growing City's values of waste reduction, urban sustainability, healthy and active living, and community involvement. Check out Lisa and Andrew's blog to see them in action!
How do I schedule an interview with Andrew and Lisa?
Please refer to the Media page or email Info@GrowingCity.ca
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