Composting Basics
First, some simple definitions:
Composting – The process whereby organic waste is transformed into compost. Waste is biologically decomposed and stabilised in the presence of oxygen. This process naturally produces heat that serves to accelerate the process, and kill any pathogens and weed seeds.
Compost – A granular, stable, material, high in organic matter and plant nutrients, that improves soil structure, nutrient content, biological activity and plant yield when applied to land.
Important points to note:
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Composting is a natural biological process
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The products of composting are heat, water, carbon dioxide, and compost
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The mass and volume of compost produced is significantly less than that of the original waste
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Temperature is important, and is generated by microbial activity
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Compost is valuable
In recent times, human activity has disrupted the carbon cycle by harvesting organic material (crops), and disposing of waste to landfills and sewers. This has resulted in a range of problems including landfill leachate and gas, nutrient enrichment of waters, and loss of soil quality. Controlled composting offers a sustainable means of beneficial reuse of waste that will prevent further environmental degradation, improve productive soils and restore the carbon cycle.
