Embrace Green Living: The Benefits of Composting and How to Get Started

In a world striving for sustainability, composting stands out as a simple yet powerful way to make a positive impact. Not only does composting reduce waste sent to landfills, but it also enriches soil, reduces greenhouse gas emissions, and fosters a deeper connection to nature. In this guide, we’ll delve into the benefits of composting and provide you with some easy steps to get you started on your composting journey.

Benefits of Composting

Helps Reduce Waste

• Roughly 30% of household waste is organic material that has the potential to be composted.
• Composting helps divert organic waste from landfills.
• It reduces methane emissions.
• It significantly reduces household carbon footprint.

How to Get Started with composting

Choose a composting method

• Depending on your space, resources, and lifestyle, Composting methods can range from a traditional backyard system with a bin or pile to a more minor indoor system.
• If composting outdoors, you’ll need a designated area or composting bin.
• You can build your own using wooden pallets and wire mesh or recycled containers.

Gather organic material

• Start with produce scraps**, coffee grounds, and grass clippings (“greens” nitrogen-rich materials) and combine with dry leaves, straw, and shredded paper (“browns” carbon-rich materials). This combination helps create optimal composting conditions.
• It's recommended to avoid meat, dairy, and oily food as they tend to attract pests and can slow down the composting process.
• Check with your local municipal waste management systems to see what programs they offer for composting these materials.