Question 1

What is compostable material exactly?

Accepted Answer

Compostable materials are organic substances that can break down into nutrient-rich soil under the right conditions. These materials include food scraps, yard waste, and certain paper products. The decomposition process is facilitated by microorganisms, fungi, insects, and worms that transform the organic matter into humus, a stable form of organic matter that improves soil health.

Question 2

How do I start composting at home?

Accepted Answer

Starting a home compost is simple! Begin by selecting a suitable location in your yard or get a compost bin. Layer ‘brown’ materials (dry leaves, paper, cardboard) with ‘green’ materials (food scraps, grass clippings). Keep the pile moist like a wrung-out sponge and turn it occasionally to aerate. For apartment dwellers, consider a worm bin (vermicomposting) or a bokashi system that can be used indoors.

Question 3

What’s the difference between compostable and biodegradable?

Accepted Answer

While both terms refer to materials breaking down naturally, they have distinct meanings. Compostable materials break down into nutrient-rich soil within a specific timeframe (typically 90-180 days in a composting environment) and leave no toxic residue. Biodegradable simply means a material will break down eventually by biological processes, but it may take years or decades and might leave behind toxic residues or microplastics.

Question 4

Can I compost meat and dairy products?

Accepted Answer

For home composting, it’s generally recommended to avoid meat, fish, dairy, and oily foods. These items break down slowly, can attract pests, create strong odors, and potentially harbor pathogens. However, if you’re using a hot composting method that maintains high temperatures (above 140°F/60°C) or a specialized system like Bokashi, you might be able to process these items. Municipal composting facilities often can handle meat and dairy as they maintain higher temperatures.

Question 5

What is the carbon-to-nitrogen ratio and why is it important?

Accepted Answer

The carbon-to-nitrogen (C:N) ratio is a measure of the relative amounts of carbon and nitrogen in compost materials. It’s important because microorganisms need both elements to thrive and break down organic matter efficiently. ‘Brown’ materials like dried leaves and paper are high in carbon, while ‘green’ materials like food scraps and grass clippings are high in nitrogen. An ideal compost pile has a C:N ratio of about 25-30:1. Too much carbon slows decomposition, while too much nitrogen can cause odors and attract pests.

Question 6

Do compostable items decompose in landfills?

Accepted Answer

Compostable items typically don’t decompose properly in landfills. Landfills are designed to minimize decomposition by limiting oxygen, moisture, and microbial activity. When organic materials do break down in this anaerobic (oxygen-free) environment, they produce methane, a potent greenhouse gas. In contrast, proper composting creates an aerobic environment where materials break down into valuable soil without producing methane.

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