The Basic Difference
Recycling converts materials into new products of similar type — paper into paper, aluminum into aluminum. Composting converts organic (biological) materials into humus, a nutrient-rich soil amendment, through biological decomposition.
The key rule: if it came from a plant or animal, it can likely be composted. If it's a manufactured material (plastic, glass, metal, paper), it typically gets recycled.
What to Compost
Food scraps (fruit, vegetable peelings, coffee grounds, tea bags, eggshells), yard waste (grass clippings, leaves, garden trimmings), uncoated paper (paper towels, napkins, cardboard — which can be both composted and recycled), and natural fiber materials (cotton or wool clothing in small amounts).
Avoid composting: meat, fish, dairy, oily foods (attract pests), diseased plants, pet waste, and any treated or coated paper.
Pizza Boxes: The Classic Case
Pizza boxes are a perfect example of the compost-vs-recycle dilemma. The clean cardboard top flap can be recycled (torn off and placed in recycling). The greasy bottom — soaked with oil and food residue — cannot be recycled (grease prevents proper re-pulping) but CAN be composted. Tear off the clean section and compost the greasy section.
Community Composting Options
If you don't compost at home, many cities offer curbside food scrap collection, community garden composting programs, or drop-off sites at farmers markets and transfer stations. Some drop-off recycling centers accept food scraps or yard waste for composting — check with your local facility.