Worcester County is home to innovators who blend economic vitality with environmental stewardship, and few shine as brightly as Go Green OC. This Ocean City-based nonprofit is on a mission to transform the region into the first zero-waste resort town in the United States—and they’re well on their way.
Since launching in 2018, Go Green OC has composted over one million pounds of food waste, a milestone reached this spring. From bustling restaurants to major concerts, they’re proving that sustainability isn’t just an environmental goal—it’s a community movement that fuels economic growth.
Composting at Events: A Game-Changer for Waste Reduction
Go Green OC is redefining how Worcester County hosts events by tackling waste at its source. Their partnership with the Roland E. Powell Convention Center aims to reduce event waste by 90% over the next five years. Whether it’s catered functions or concession stands, every leftover plate and compostable cup gets a second life as nutrient-rich soil.
Beyond the convention center, Go Green OC’s presence at high-profile festivals like Oceans Calling and Country Calling is turning heads. In 2024, they composted over 11,000 pounds of food waste across these two festivals. Not only did they divert waste from landfills, but they also partnered with Diakonia Inc. to donate surplus food, ensuring good meals reached local families in need.
“The consistency of Go Green OC’s composting program is unmatched,” says Eric, head chef for the VIP section at Oceans Calling Festival. “Any leftover food, compostable plates—it’s all collected and returned to the earth. This is the first program I’ve seen operate at this level, and we love it because it makes us conscious of what we’re using and recycling.”
What started with support for a single event has now grown into partnerships with four major festivals, amplifying Worcester County’s reputation as a destination where entertainment and environmental responsibility go hand in hand.
Local Restaurants and Businesses: Partners in Progress
Go Green OC’s impact ripples through Ocean City’s dining and business scene. In 2024, 19 restaurants and establishments joined their composting program, including community favorites like Higgins Crab House, Seacrets Jamaica USA, The Hobbit, Longboard Café, Mother’s Cantina, Dough Roller, and Fish Tales.
Their efforts in 2024 alone resulted in the composting of over 305,000 pounds of food waste, including a remarkable 75,000 pounds of fruit rinds. This not only reduces landfill reliance but also lowers disposal costs for participating businesses, providing a clear economic benefit.
The initiative’s full-circle impact supports local farmers who transform food scraps into valuable compost, strengthening both the hospitality sector and the region’s agricultural community.
Go Green OC Growth Timeline
A Year-by-Year Look at Their Impact
- 2018: 1,980 pounds diverted (1 business)
- 2019: Fundraised nearly $9,000
- 2020: 12,190 pounds diverted (1 business)
- 2021: 81,000 pounds diverted (5 businesses)
- 2022: 230,000 pounds diverted (12 businesses)
- 2023: 340,000 pounds diverted (25 businesses)
- 2024: 305,000 pounds diverted (19 businesses)
- 2025: ??? (Stay tuned!)
Economic, Environmental, and Community Impact
Go Green OC’s success story isn’t just about waste diversion—it’s a blueprint for sustainable growth.
- Economically, the initiative supports local jobs through Go Green OC and their for-profit logistics partner, Ocean Compost LLC.
- Environmentally, composting reduces landfill reliance and cuts emissions from waste incineration, safeguarding Worcester County’s air and waterways.
- Socially, it fosters a culture of sustainability, inspiring residents, businesses, and visitors to rethink waste management.
For local businesses, the rewards go beyond cost savings. Adopting eco-friendly practices enhances brand appeal, attracts eco-conscious tourists, and creates a competitive edge in a market that increasingly values green initiatives.
As Josh Chamberlain, founder of Go Green OC, puts it: “Our community’s enthusiastic response has turned a small initiative into a powerful movement.”
In 2023, over 24 dedicated volunteers logged 1,600 hours, a testament to the growing grassroots support for this green transformation.
Looking Ahead: Summer, Festivals, and Beyond
With the one million pound milestone reached this spring, Go Green OC isn’t slowing down. Summer marks their busiest season, as they continue collecting food waste from local restaurants and public spaces, keeping Ocean City’s shores cleaner for all.
Looking toward fall, Go Green OC is gearing up to support multiple festivals once again, ensuring that Worcester County remains a leader in sustainable tourism practices. Their partnerships with businesses, event organizers, and municipal leaders demonstrate how environmental responsibility can align with economic development goals.
For Worcester County, Go Green OC’s work exemplifies how innovation, community collaboration, and sustainability can drive long-term economic success. Whether it’s through job creation, cost savings, or enhanced visitor appeal, their mission contributes to a resilient and thriving local economy.
Be Part of the Green Wave
Worcester County Economic Development celebrates Go Green OC’s leadership as a model for balancing environmental stewardship with economic vitality. Residents, visitors, and businesses are invited to join the movement.
To learn more, volunteer, or support Go Green OC’s initiatives, visit gogreenwithoc.org—because every sip, bite, and beat can build a greener future for Worcester County.
