How to Compost in Your Office Building
| Composting Method | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Aerated Static Pile (ASP) Composting | This method involves placing organic material on a pad and then aerating the pile by forcing air through the material. The temperature of the pile is also monitored and controlled to ensure proper decomposition. |
| In-Vessel Composting | This method involves using a sealed container or vessel to compost organic material. The container is typically rotated to ensure proper aeration and mixing of the material. Temperature and moisture levels are also closely monitored and controlled. |
| Windrow Composting | This method involves placing organic material in long, narrow piles called windrows. The piles are turned periodically to ensure proper aeration and mixing of the material. Temperature and moisture levels are also closely monitored and controlled. |
| Vermicomposting | This method involves using worms to decompose organic material. The worms are typically placed in a bin or container along with organic material, and the resulting compost is rich in nutrients and highly beneficial for plants. |
In aerated static pile (ASP) composting, organic waste is placed on a pad and aerated by forcing air through the pile. The temperature is also controlled to ensure proper decomposition.
In in-vessel composting, organic material is composted in a sealed container or vessel that is rotated to ensure proper mixing and aeration. Temperature and moisture levels are also closely monitored and controlled.
In windrow composting, organic material is placed in long, narrow piles called windrows. The piles are periodically turned to ensure proper aeration and mixing of the material. Temperature and moisture levels are also closely monitored and controlled.
Vermicomposting involves using worms to decompose organic material. The worms are placed in a bin or container along with organic material, and the resulting compost is highly beneficial for plants. This method is often used in smaller-scale composting operations.
Common problems during composting include:
- Moisture: Composting requires the right amount of moisture to work effectively. Too much water can lead to a slimy mess and unpleasant odors, while too little can slow down the decomposition process.
- Temperature: Composting should take place in a warm environment to encourage the breakdown of organic matter. However, if the temperature gets too high, it can kill the beneficial microbes that help break down the compost.
- Airflow: Compost needs air to circulate to keep the beneficial microbes alive and thriving. Without enough airflow, the compost can become anaerobic, leading to unpleasant odors and slower decomposition.
- Materials: The materials that go into composting should be carefully selected to ensure they are biodegradable and do not contain any toxins or harmful chemicals. Adding materials that cannot be broken down can lead to problems with the composting process.
- Pests: Composting can attract pests such as rodents, insects, and even bears. Proper storage and management of compost can help prevent these unwanted visitors.
- pH: Composting requires a certain pH level to ensure the beneficial microbes can thrive. If the pH is too high or too low, it can slow down the decomposition process or even kill off the beneficial microbes altogether.
| Problem | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Foul odor | Anaerobic decomposition due to lack of oxygen | Turn the compost pile regularly to increase oxygen and prevent compacting. Add dry brown materials such as leaves or wood chips to improve aeration. |
| Pests such as rats or flies | Attracted to food waste | Keep food waste covered with carbon-rich materials such as wood chips or shredded paper. Make sure the compost bin or pile is securely closed. |
| Slow decomposition | Lack of nitrogen-rich materials or too much carbon-rich materials | Add nitrogen-rich materials such as grass clippings or vegetable scraps. Turn the pile more frequently to increase aeration. |
| Too wet or too dry | Too much moisture or lack of moisture | Add dry brown materials to absorb excess moisture. Water the pile if it is too dry. Maintain a moisture level of 50-60%. |
| Unpleasant appearance | Untidy or unattractive compost pile | Use a compost bin or pile that is appropriate for your space and needs. Keep the area around the compost pile clean and tidy. Consider using a cover or decorative fencing to improve appearance. |
Composting methods
| Item | Examples | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Food waste | Fruits, vegetables, meat, dairy | Any organic matter from food that can break down into compost. |
| Yard waste | Grass clippings, leaves, branches | Organic matter from maintaining lawns, gardens, and trees. |
| Animal manure | Horse, cow, chicken, pig | Animal waste can add nitrogen and other nutrients to compost. |
| Paper and cardboard | Newspaper, cardboard boxes | These materials can provide carbon and help balance the nitrogen from food and yard waste. |
| Bioplastics | Compostable plastic utensils, cups | These plastics are designed to break down in an industrial composting facility. They can’t be recycled and should not be placed in regular plastic bins. |
| Bio-solids | Sewage sludge | Treated human waste can be used to provide nutrients to compost. |