Composting

Compost Uses Compost is regulated in Georgia as a Soil Amendment, which is defined as any substance which is intended to change the physical characteristics of the soil

Product Name Statement of claim or purpose Adequate directions for use Net weight or volume Name and address of registrant

Benefits Improves soil structure and porosity Creates a better plant root environment

Supplies organic matter Supplies beneficial soil microorganisms

Contains humus which acts as a soil glue, holding soil particles together and improving the soil’s ability to retain moisture

Increases moisture infiltration and reduces bulk density of heavy soils Using compost in highly erosive areas can decrease erosion and allow quicker establishment of vegetation

New Source of Compost

Restaurant Food Waste Recycling City of Los Angeles Department of Public Works Bureau of Sanitation

Compost from Food Waste Organic matter collected from participating restaurants is taken to a state-permitted facility where it is mixed with green waste to produce nutrient-rich compost. The complete composting process takes approximately three months. This nutritious soil conditioner is mixed with existing soil, where it replenishes the earth and stimulates healthy plant growth, which in turn produces healthier crops.

ACCEPTABLE MATERIALS All food waste and trimmings including: fruits and vegetables meats and bones, sea food, poultry dairy products bread and grains coffee grounds plant trimmings soiled paper products, milk cartons and waxed cardboard.

All food waste is collected in smaller bins inside the participating Food Service Establishment

Smaller bins are emptied into larger outdoor containers.

Food waste is mixed with green waste at a composting facility.

The mixed material is cured for about three months.

The finished product, a nutrient-rich compost, is screened to remove larger pieces.

The nutrient-rich compost is used by farmers and gardeners to help grow bigger and better crops.