Transforming Food Scraps into Gold: How Zero Waste Houston is Cultivating Greener Communities Through Composting

Since 2019, Zero Waste Houston has been transforming food scraps into valuable compost for gardens and landscaping. Leo Brito, the owner, believes in a mission that goes beyond just composting. He aims to keep waste out of landfills and promote sustainable soil practices.

Brito emphasizes the importance of individual contributions. “When you sign up, you’re not just getting a service. You’re helping tackle broader environmental issues,” he says. His passion stems from a deep concern for the health of our planet, from its ecosystems to the soil itself.

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, about 62% of landfill materials could be composted. This is significant when you consider that The Woodlands generates over 42 million pounds of organic waste each year. Brito notes, “That’s a local resource we’re wasting if it goes to landfills instead of being composted.”

Changing how we view waste requires a shift in mindset. Brito points out that even small changes in habits can have a big impact.

Data from The Woodlands Township shows that if the area’s 124,541 residents each compost 345 pounds a year, it could divert nearly 43 million pounds from landfills and prevent over 111 million pounds of carbon dioxide emissions.

Zero Waste Houston operates with a small team and two trucks, offering services to both homes and businesses in the area. Subscribers receive a five-gallon bucket for their food waste, collected weekly. The collected waste is then transformed into compost used in their landscaping services.

Beyond composting, Zero Waste Houston is committed to community education. They partner with local organizations like the Houston Zoo and WoodsEdge Church to spread the message about sustainability. In 2025, they launched the Houston School of Compost, offering a hands-on certification course in hot composting, which speeds up the decomposition process.

With growing awareness of climate change, community composting initiatives are more relevant than ever. A recent survey found that nearly 70% of people are willing to change their habits for environmental benefits. This shows a promising trend towards sustainability that movements like Zero Waste Houston can harness.

The effort of Zero Waste Houston reflects a broader shift towards a circular economy, where waste is minimized and resources are reused. It’s not just about keeping the planet clean; it’s about fostering a healthier community for everyone.

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Zero Waste Houston, business, The Woodlands