What are the benefits of composting you might ask? Composting is a natural process that has been used for years to stabilize sewage sludge, industrial waste, and municipal solid waste (MSW). It is a controlled biological decomposition of organic matter, a natural way of returning nutrients and humus to the soil through the action of microorganisms.
Benefits of Composting
Composting at home offers numerous benefits:
- Reduces personal trash volume.
- Conserves water.
- Increases plant growth.
- Eliminates the need for chemical fertilizers.
- Improves soil structure and texture.
- Increases the soil’s water-holding capacity.
Given the increasing rate of topsoil erosion, it’s crucial to find ways to utilize valuable organic materials rather than discarding them in landfills.
The Science Behind Composting
Several factors contribute to successful composting:
- Microorganisms: These are the key elements in the decomposition process, liberating nutrients that help plants grow. There are two types:
- Aerobic microorganisms: Thrive in well-circulated air.
- Anaerobic microorganisms: Active in environments lacking oxygen.
- Oxygen: Aerobic microorganisms require oxygen to function effectively. Ensuring adequate oxygen flow in the compost pile accelerates decomposition. This can be achieved by:
- Turning the pile to introduce air.
- Placing branches at the bottom of the pile for airflow.
- Poking holes into the pile.
- Water: Both aerobic and anaerobic microorganisms need water.
- The ideal moisture level is similar to a squeezed-out sponge.
- Sprinkling water helps maintain moisture, while a tarp covering prevents moisture loss.
- Excessive moisture should be avoided, as it creates anaerobic conditions leading to odors and delayed decomposition.
- Balance of Brown and Green Materials:
- A healthy compost pile requires a balance of wet, green materials (grass clippings, food scraps, manure) and dry, brown materials (dry leaves, woody materials). This balance ensures high temperatures and a slow simmering process to create compost.
- Using only brown materials slows down the composting process due to insufficient heat generation.
- Only using green materials can lead to odor development.
- Temperature: The heat generated by microorganisms within the compost pile is vital for decomposition and producing safe compost. Temperatures above 130 degrees Fahrenheit effectively inactivate most dangerous microbes. Usually, no external heat is needed as microorganisms generate heat during decomposition.
Composting: A Solution for Waste Management
Many communities face garbage disposal problems due to limited landfills, environmental concerns, and land-use preferences. To address this, many states, including Iowa, have adopted integrated waste management approaches.
These approaches prioritize:
- Waste reduction at the source.
- Recycling and reuse.
- Combustion with energy recovery.
- Combustion for volume reduction (without energy recovery).
- Landfill disposal (as a last resort).
Iowa has implemented several measures, including:
- A statewide solid waste management policy under the Groundwater Protection Act.
- The Waste Reduction/Recycling Act, which aims to reduce waste volume by 25% by 1994 and 50% by 2000.
- A ban on yard waste disposal in landfills, effective January 1991.
Yard waste constitutes a significant portion (17-18%) of the municipal solid waste stream. Banning it from landfills and promoting composting as a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative has proven successful. Composting is particularly well-suited for yard waste due to its high organic content.
Timeframe for Composting
The composting process can take anywhere from one month to two years, depending on environmental factors.
Finished compost:
- Dark brown or black in color.
- Crumbly texture.
- Sweet, earthy aroma.
Foul odors indicate a lack of oxygen or an imbalance of green and brown materials. Turning the pile and adjusting the material mix can alleviate this issue.
Composting Options
While backyard composting is a viable option for many, others choose curbside pickup for yard waste, which is then taken to large municipal or regional composting facilities. These facilities efficiently handle large-scale composting operations.
Composting offers a practical and sustainable solution for reducing waste, enriching soil, and promoting a healthier environment.
Composting as a Natural Solution: Explore how composting can effectively reduce waste and improve soil health here.
Benefits of Composting for Agricultural Operations: Learn about the advantages of composting specifically for agricultural practices here.
Case Study on Composting Success: Read about successful composting programs in various communities here.
