Back Ground Information Composting 101 Back Ground Information
What is Composting? Controlled decomposition of organic materials like; Leaves, grass, and food scraps Composting can be divided into three types: Home or Backyard—natural degradation of yard trimmings, food scraps, wood ashes, shredded paper, coffee grounds and other household organic waste Vermicomposting—natural degradation of organic waste using microscopic organism and digestive process of earthworms Heat Based—Commercial heat process used by companies
How Does Composting Work? Compost contains both carbon and nitrogen sources Can be simplified into browns and greens Browns: leaves, straw, woody materials Greens: grass and food scraps Browns and greens can be mixed to form a compost Compost should be moist and turned periodically During decomposition, organic material is broken down by bacterial, fungi, and bugs that natural appear in compost
What are the Benefits? Method of handling large amount of waste Makes good environmental sense Organic waste not ideal for landfills—creates methane gas that is harmful to environment Can be a useful resource for soil additive for gardens, farmlands, and landscape projects Makes economic sense: Saves money Makes less trash
New Trends in Composting Has been used to clean up hazardous waste Removes contaminates from storm water Facilitates reforestation Helps restore wetlands Biodegradable tableware dishes have been developed Has been used to restore soil that has been contaminated by oil spills, explosives, and lead contaminates