Beyond the Bin: Denali’s Role in Reimagining Waste

Show Notes:

In this episode of Harvesting Wisdom, titled “Beyond the Bin: Denali’s Role in Reimagining Waste”, host Mike McMahon welcomes Margaret Wilson, General Manager of Denali Arizona, to explore the critical role of large-scale composting in building a circular, climate-smart future.

With decades of experience in engineering and military logistics, Margaret brings a unique perspective to her work at Denali. From converting food waste into compost and animal feed, to reclaiming cooking oil for biodiesel, Denali is reshaping the waste conversation—not just in Arizona, but nationwide.

You’ll hear about how Denali works with major municipalities like Phoenix, Goodyear, and Glendale, and collaborates with Walmart and other corporations to close the loop on food and organic waste. They discuss cutting-edge composting technology, VOC regulations, and how education and community behavior are pivotal to the success of sustainable systems.

 Why Listen?

This episode of Harvesting Wisdom brings UFE’s values to life—"We have all taken a bite out of the apple", and now it’s time to act. Learn how Denali is closing the loop between organic waste and renewable solutions, and how technology, discipline, and community education are creating scalable sustainability.

Important Timeliness:

1:55 – Margaret Wilson’s background in engineering and sustainability

5:11 – Lessons from international military service on environmental waste management

7:21 – Denali’s Phoenix site: forced-air composting in 45 days

8:22 – Used cooking oil transformed into biodiesel

8:43 – Walmart partnership: compost made from food waste sold back through Walmart

10:06 – Soccer field project: compost turns turf from yellow to lush green

11:05 – Compost vs fertilizer: safety, smell, and long-term soil benefits

13:02 – Types of feedstock: tree trimmings, organics, and minimal biosolids

14:49 – EPA visit: air quality, VOCs, and odor mitigation education

16:42 – Arizona Compost Council: statewide collaboration and education

17:43 – Contamination challenges: plastic, glass, and source education

19:35 – Incentivizing landscapers to deliver clean loads in Phoenix

21:52 – Managing oversupply and demand—effects of monsoon debris

24:10 – Sales channels: direct to consumer, Walmart, distributors like Scott’s

26:10 – Monitoring with RFID temp probes, managing fire risk

28:34 – Denali’s other operations: liquid waste in Glendale, bakery waste in Goodyear

30:26 – Food waste processed into animal feed for agriculture

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