Domingo Medina is the Owner and Founder of Peels & Wheels Composting, a neighborhood-scale composting operation based in New Haven, CT. Originally from Venezuela, Domingo holds a PhD in natural resource management from Michigan State University. His work supporting communities facing agricultural hardships connected him to the importance of soil health and nurturing both healthy plants and bodies, which ultimately sparked his interest in composting.
Peels & Wheels Composting collects food scraps from residents, schools, and small businesses, using a system of bikes and trailers to transport the waste to composting sites. By fostering partnerships and community engagement, Peels & Wheels not only diverts organic waste from landfills, but also creates local jobs, enhances soil health, and promotes environmental education. Through collaborations with organizations like New Haven Farms and Common Ground High School, Domingo facilitates urban farming initiatives and shared resources to further sustainable practices.
Domingo’s approach to composting is rooted in the belief that keeping operations human-scale is essential. Unlike larger composting facilities that rely on heavy machinery and centralized processing, Domingo focuses on localized solutions that prioritize community involvement and soil improvement over industrial-scale methods.
As a member of the Institute of Local Self-Reliance, Domingo is part of a network of over 300 businesses and organizations committed to community-based composting. Together, they share knowledge, resources, and best practices, as well as organize annual conferences to support each other in navigating challenges such as logistics, regulations, and sustainability.
Through Domingo’s vision and dedication, Peels & Wheels Composting has become more than just a business—it’s a catalyst for positive change in New Haven’s environmental landscape, demonstrating that small-scale actions can have a big impact on soil health, waste reduction, and community resilience.
To learn more, or if you live in the New Haven area and want to begin composting with Domingo, visit: https://www.pwcomposting.com/sign-up.
