The most abundant item in our garbage cans isn’t paper, plastic bags or diapers. It’s food scraps, and it’s overflowing our landfills.

“Almost half of all that (food) could be diverted to compost piles,” said Todd Sutton, owner of WasteSleuth.com. “Cities can’t keep putting stuff into the landfill.”

That was the message Sutton brought to Oakley residents and officials recently at a free composting workshop hosted by the city. The event was part of Oakley’s ongoing efforts under a new state law to reduce waste from overflowing landfills.

“We are implementing the state law,” said Senior Planner Josh McMurray. “And one of the programs the city puts on is composting workshops. It’s a great way for residents of the city to help and do their share to divert waste from the landfill.”

During the workshop, Sutton outlined the benefits of composting and highlighted the simple steps to creating a home compost bin that can be used as mulch and fertilizer in the garden.

The next time you go to toss that leftover salad or tuna casserole into the garbage can, reserve it for your compost bin instead. You’ll not only save space in the trash, you’ll reduce your carbon footprint and help your garden flourish.

Oakley will conduct three more free workshops this year. For more information, call 925-625-7000 or visit www.oakleyinfo.com.