Understanding Composting

April 20, 2020

Solid Waste Management is the process of collecting, transporting and either processing or disposing of waste materials. Solid waste management is necessary as it keeps the neighbourhood clean and the citizens healthy.

Some examples of solid waste aretoxic, medical and biodegradable waste. biodegradable wasteprimarily consists of domestic biodegradable waste such as theremains of fruits and vegetables, eggshells, hair, fur, woodchips etc. Unlike some of the other types of solid waste, biodegradable waste can be reused efficiently by the method of ‘Composting’.

What is Composting?

Natural composting has been a procedure since the first plant on earth fell to the ground and gradually decomposed. This decomposition provided minerals and nutrients which are essential for the life of plants, animals, and other living organisms.

Today, the rate of generating biodegradable waste has never been higher, and it is quite impractical if we choose to wait for natural composting. Instead, we can create our own compost with a mixture of biodegradable waste.The compost turns into a dark brown or black soil-like substance with an earthy smell. This substance is called humus.

What are some of the Benefits of Composting?

• It eliminates the need for chemical fertilizers and reduces the need for pesticides and water.
• Better agricultural crops.
• It repairs contaminated soil.
• Prevents the formulation of Leachate and Methane in landfills.
• It is at least 50 percent cheaper than conventional soil.

Points to remember:

• The right balance – Like most things in life, the right balance is required in order to function efficiently. It is no different in the case of composting. Composting needs the right balance of greenbiodegradable wastethat contain nitrogen and brownbiodegradable wastethat contain carbon. With the right mix of nutrientsyou can master the science of composting.
• Size matters – The texture of the compost is important for it to be more proficient. The particles of the compost need to be small as it producesa consistent mixture, improving insulation and maintainingthe most favourable temperatures. On the other hand, if the particles are too small, air will not flow through the compost.
• Moisture – Asufficient amount of moisture is mandatory for the survival of microorganisms in the pile. These microorganisms decomposebiodegradable waste. Water transports substances within the pile.
• Oxygen – Aerate the pile of compost to speed up the process of decomposition. On the other hand, too much oxygen will dry out the pile and hinder the process of composting.
• Temperature – In order to survive, microorganisms need a certain temperature range thatensuresquick composting.

Composting is another way to protect the environment by introducing greenery to your neighbourhood.

Tags: Greening the Grey, Waste Segregation

All our articles are periodically updated.