Karuna Compost is a grassroots, community-based composting initiative in Calgary. We bring people together through hands-on composting, shared learning, and neighbourhood-scale environmental action.
We are exploring the various ways in which backyard composting and the study of microbes can lead to better health, stronger communities, and a greater appreciation of living systems.
In 2025, we organized over 40 free meetups across Calgary, including ongoing programs at Highfield Regenerative Farm, The Alex Community Food Centre, and the Sunalta Community Association.
Some things that matters to us
Nutritional Security
We’re interested in how healthy soil leads to healthy food, and how communities can play an active role in that process. Composting is one small, practical way of returning nutrients to the ground and supporting local food systems.
Making things together
There’s something important about working with our hands alongside others. Whether we’re turning a pile, building a worm bin, or looking through a microscope, shared activity creates space for conversation, learning, and connection.
Developing Relationships
This work is supported through everyday forms of reciprocity and exchange. Over time, connections grow between people, places, and the living systems around us.
Care & Attention
Composting asks us to slow down and notice what’s happening — temperature, moisture, texture, life. We try to carry that same attentiveness into how we relate to each other and the spaces we’re part of.
Experimentation
We’re curious about materials and processes. We try things, observe what happens, and adjust. There’s room here for open inquiry, mistakes, and learning by doing.
Community Building
We see composting as a way of bringing people together at a neighbourhood scale and reconnecting to the land. The goal isn’t just better soil, but stronger, more connected communities.
How we work
We collaborate with community organizations, schools, and neighbourhood groups to offer accessible composting programs across the city.
Many of our programs are offered free of charge, supported by partnerships, small grants, and community contributions. Where fees are involved, we aim to keep them accessible through sliding scale options.
If you’re interested in working together, we’d be happy to hear from you.
Get involved
There are a few simple ways to take part in the work.
You can join a meetup, bring your food scraps, learn alongside others, or just spend some time around the compost.
If you’re part of a community group, school, or organization, we’re always open to collaborations.
If you’d like to support the work, you can do that too — by volunteering, sharing resources, making a contribution, or helping us extend free programs in the community.