Organic waste—food scraps, yard trimmings, paper, wood—makes up over half of municipal solid waste in many countries. The organic waste management market focuses specifically on this biodegradable fraction, diverting it from landfills where it would generate methane. The organic waste management market includes collection (separate bins), processing (composting, AD), and end-use (compost, digestate). As landfill bans become more common, the organic waste management market is expanding.

The broader food waste management market is a large part of this. The organic waste management market for "yard trimmings" (leaves, grass, branches) is mature; many communities have curbside collection for seasonal yard waste. The organic waste management market for "composting" of yard trimmings is common. The organic waste management market for "mulching" (leaving grass clippings on the lawn) reduces waste.

The organic waste management market for "food scraps" is the growth area. The organic waste management market for "curbside collection" of food scraps (often in a separate bin or a paper bag) is expanding in cities. The organic waste management market for "drop-off" depots is used in rural areas. The organic waste management market for "in-vessel" composting (in a sealed reactor) is used for food waste from commercial sources (supermarkets, restaurants).

The organic waste management market for "biosolids" (sewage sludge) is also part of the organic waste stream. The organic waste management market for "treatment" of biosolids includes anaerobic digestion and lime stabilization. The organic waste management market for "land application" of biosolids (as fertilizer) is regulated to prevent contamination. The organic waste management market for "incineration" of biosolids is declining.

The organic waste management market is also driven by the need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Methane from landfills is a potent greenhouse gas. The organic waste management market for "landfill gas capture" (installing wells to collect methane) is a mitigation measure, but prevention is preferred. The organic waste management market for "aerobic" treatment (composting) emits CO2 but not methane.

Looking ahead, the organic waste management market will see the adoption of "smart" bins with sensors to monitor fill levels and contamination. The organic waste management market for "community" composting (neighborhood-scale) will grow. The organic waste management market for "regulations" on PFAS (forever chemicals) in compost will tighten. As the organic waste management market matures, the focus will shift from disposal to resource recovery.

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