Why Composting is Important

Composting has many environmental and economic benefits. Here are just a few reasons why composting is important:

1. Reduces Waste

Composting is an effective way to reduce waste. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), yard trimmings and food waste together account for about 30% of the waste generated in the United States. Composting these materials can divert them from landfills and reduce the amount of waste that needs to be transported and processed.

2. Improves Soil Quality

Composting can improve soil quality by adding organic matter and nutrients to the soil. Compost contains a variety of nutrients that plants need, including nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. It also improves soil structure, making it easier for plants to grow.

3. Reduces the Need for Chemical Fertilizers

Composting can reduce the need for chemical fertilizers. Chemical fertilizers can have negative impacts on the environment, including polluting waterways and harming wildlife. By using compost instead of chemical fertilizers, you can help reduce these negative impacts.

4. Saves Money

Composting can save money by reducing the amount of waste that needs to be disposed of and by reducing the need for chemical fertilizers. By composting, you can also reduce your water usage, as compost helps soil retain moisture.

Composting Myth

Despite what some people may think, food waste and other organic materials do not break down efficiently in landfills. In fact, when these materials decompose in landfills without access to air, they release methane gas, a potent greenhouse gas - 28 times more potent than carbon dioxide - that contributes to climate change. Moreover, this process can release toxic substances that can contaminate the surrounding soil and groundwater. Composting provides a controlled environment that promotes natural decomposition with access to oxygen, and the end result is a nutrient-rich substance that can fertilize soil and benefit plants. By composting, you're not only reducing waste, but also helping to combat climate change and prevent soil contamination.

How to Compost

Composting is easy and can be done in a variety of ways. Here are some tips for getting started:

1. Choose a Composting Method

There are several different methods for composting, including:

• Backyard composting: This method involves creating a compost pile in your backyard. You can use a variety of materials, including yard trimmings, food waste, and paper products. Backyard composting requires some maintenance, including turning the compost pile regularly. 

• Vermicomposting: Vermicomposting involves using compost worms to break down organic waste materials. You can purchase a worm bin or create your own. Vermicomposting is a good option for those who live in apartments or who have limited outdoor space.

• Bokashi composting: Bokashi is the Japanese term for "fermented organic matter," a specialized system in which waste breaks down without oxygen to produce a compost “tea” and a small amount of organic waste that should be buried. 

• Composting with a tumbler: Composting with a tumbler involves placing organic waste materials in a container that can be rotated to mix the materials. This method is good for those who want a more hands-off approach to composting.

• Trench composting: also known as pit composting or in-ground composting, is a method of composting that involves burying organic materials directly into the soil. This process allows for natural decomposition to occur underground, creating nutrient-rich soil that can be used to fertilize plants.

2. Gather Materials

To compost, you will need a mix of "greens" (nitrogen-rich materials) and "browns" (carbon-rich materials). Greens include things like fruit and vegetable scraps, grass clippings, and coffee grounds. Browns include things like dried leaves, newspaper, and cardboard.

You will also need a compost bin or container to hold your materials. There are many options available, including plastic bins, wire bins, and wooden bins.

3. Start Composting

To start composting, begin by layering your greens and browns in your compost bin. Aim for a ratio of about 3 parts browns to 1 part greens. Keep your compost moist, but not too wet. You can add water as needed to keep the materials moist.

If you are backyard composting, be sure to turn your compost pile regularly to help aerate the materials and speed up the composting process.

Once your compost is ready (it should look and smell like rich, dark soil), you can use it to fertilize your garden, flower beds, or indoor plants. Simply spread a layer of compost over the soil and mix it in. Your plants will love the nutrient-rich soil, and you will be doing your part to reduce waste and protect the environment.