Composting: Transforming Trash Into Treasure

If you’re a nature + planet lover, this one is for you! In reality, this one is for EVERYONE – because we live in a world where we can no longer afford to not embrace sustainable living. Recycling is perhaps one of the most popular initiatives when it comes to “being green”. But by now, we know that most of it doesn’t actually get recycled and ends up in landfills. Heck, my city doesn’t even recycle glass anymore. Shocking right?

So what is the best way to dispose of waste? For starters, the best policy will always be to reduce, reuse, and repurpose. And if you have to purchase something, always ask: do I really need this? This system is simple, it’s free, it avoids generating waste, doesn’t require any work, and it saves you money.

But what about what when we do need to buy and consume. Like with food. How can we find sustainable waste solutions for that?

That’s where composting enters! Composting is a way to turn your leftover food scraps, like banana peels and veggie trimmings, into nutrients that are amazing for the environment. For this post, let’s dive into the world of composting, explore its awesomeness, and understand why it’s a game-changer when it comes to sustainability.

Understanding Composting

You know how when fruits and vegetables get old, they start to rot? Well, when we compost, we are kind of helping this process along so that our organic waste can be repurposed in nature. This natural process happens thanks to the hard work of microorganisms like bacteria and fungi that munch on the organic matter, turning it into nutrients for our plants.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to compost:

1. Choose a Composting Method: Decide which composting method suits your needs. Options include backyard composting, worm composting (vermicomposting), or using a compost tumbler or bin.
2. Compostable Materials: organic materials are suitable for composting. These include fruit and vegetable scraps, coffee grounds, tea leaves, eggshells, yard trimmings, leaves, and small amounts of shredded paper or cardboard. Avoid meat, dairy, oily/greasy items, and pet waste.
3. Layer Green and Brown Materials: balance your compost pile by alternating layers of green (nitrogen-rich) and brown (carbon-rich) materials. Greens include fresh kitchen scraps and grass clippings, while browns consist of dry leaves or shredded paper.
4. Keep It Moist and Airy: Keep your compost pile moist, like a wrung-out sponge. Add water if it becomes too dry or cover it during heavy rain. Turn or aerate the pile occasionally to provide oxygen for the microorganisms.
5. Avoid Odors: Cover food scraps with a layer of brown material to discourage pests and minimize odors.
6. Be Patient + Keep An Eye On It: Composting takes time, typically several months to a year. Monitor the compost pile regularly, checking for moisture levels and turning it to aid decomposition. The compost is ready when it’s dark, crumbly, and has an earthy smell.
7. Use Your Finished Compost: Once your compost is ready, use it to enrich your garden soil.

Remember, composting is an ongoing process. Keep adding organic materials to your compost pile or bin as you generate them, and enjoy the benefits of creating your own nutrient-rich soil while reducing waste!

Why Everyone Should Be Composting

Reduce Waste Sent to Landfill and Fight Climate Change
You won’t believe how much organic waste ends up in landfills! It’s a really big problem. But guess what? When you decide to compost instead of just tossing it in the trash, you are making sure that this waste is being turned into nature’s pixie dust for plants instead of ending up in landfills. Why does that matter? Because it means fewer greenhouse gas emissions, less soil and water pollution, and a lower demand for expanding landfills. By composting, we’re tackling climate change head-on and making our planet a happier, healthier place.

Boost Soil Nutrients and Help Plants Grow
Compost is like a superfood for your soil. It nourishes it with essential nutrients, improves its structure, and helps it retain water. With compost, your soil becomes a thriving environment for your plants.

Support Sustainable Farming
Compost is a farmer’s secret weapon. It’s an all-natural, eco-friendly alternative to synthetic fertilizers. When you add compost to fields, you improve soil quality, boost crop yield, and reduce the need for chemicals. It’s like a boost from Mother Nature, supporting sustainable agricultural practices and creating better farming systems.

What If I’m Not Ready For Home Composting?

Composting doesn’t have to be a solo journey and it’s OK if you’re not ready to try it out yourself just yet. Here’s the good news! Many communities have embraced the composting way with amazing programs. Think curbside collection of food waste and yard trimmings, community composting sites (like Farmer’s Markets), and partnerships with local farmers. So if home composting feels a little intimidating right now, do a little online search to find these types of initiatives in your area.

Being Part of The Green Revolution

Composting is quite fascinating, don’t you think? It’s not only about dirt and decay, but it’s also a wonderful and transformative process that turns our day-to-day waste into treasure. It nourishes the soil, reduces landfill waste, fights climate change, and it’s a sustainable form of agriculture. This is a beautiful way to close the loop and better connect with nature. Whether you’re a backyard composter or part of a community effort, embracing composting lets you play an important part in creating a greener, healthier planet for generations to come.

DID YOU KNOW…

The Nutrinut Seed Cycling Kit comes in 100% compostable packaging!