Introduction to Composting

Composting is an eco-friendly process that transforms organic materials like food scraps and yard waste into a valuable soil amendment, promoting waste reduction and enhancing soil health. It's beneficial for the environment, individual households, and communities by minimizing landfill waste, improving garden soil, reducing greenhouse gases, and potentially creating local jobs.

Composting Methods

Home-Based Methods

• Backyard Composting: Ideal for those with outdoor space; involves piling organic materials to decompose naturally.
• Vermicomposting: Utilizes worms to break down waste; suitable for indoor settings or small outdoor areas.
• Bokashi Composting: A fermentation process using microorganisms; good for quick composting with limited space.
• Trench Composting: Involves burying waste in trenches to enrich garden soil directly.

Community and Industrial Methods

• Industrial Composting: Large-scale operations processing organic waste from various sources; aimed at community waste reduction.
• Static Composting: A passive approach where materials decompose without turning or mixing.

Composting Components

Greens (Nitrogen-Rich Materials)

• Fruit and vegetable scraps
• Coffee grounds and filters
• Fresh grass clippings and green leaves
• Tea leaves and bags
• Flowers and fresh plant trimmings

Browns (Carbon-Rich Materials)

• Dry leaves
• Straw and hay
• Shredded paper and cardboard
• Wood chips and sawdust
• Eggshells
• Dryer lint

A balanced compost pile typically requires a ratio of 2 parts browns to 1 part greens. Avoid adding meats, dairy, or oily foods to prevent pests and odor issues.

Maintenance Tips for a Healthy Compost Pile