Feeding the Soil: The Benefits of Composting
Composting is one of the easiest ways to extend the life of the products you use and the foods you consume. In essence, it is the process of “feeding the soil” by supplying it with the nutrients it needs in order to grow the underlying ecosystem. Read on to learn more about the process of composting and to find a beginner’s guide to its many varieties.
What is compost used for?
Whether compost is added to a backyard or a commercial composting facility, the benefits remain the same. When biodegradable foods and products are added to the earth, the strength of the soil increases, plants increase their ability to stave off strains and damage, and the microbial community is fed.
Before getting started, it’s important to know the different kinds of composting that exist and what should be added to each.
Types of Composting
Aerobic Composting
When someone participates in aerobic composting, they supply organic matter to the earth that breaks down with the help of oxygen-requiring microorganisms. This type of composting is easiest for families with backyards, where the presence of oxygen will slowly break down compostable foods and products put into the earth.
Anaerobic Composting
Most of the products we sell require anaerobic composting. Commercial composting typically requires an anaerobic environment, and during this process, products and foods break down in an environment without the presence of oxygen. Microorganisms that do not require oxygen digest the composted materials and over time, these break down.
To find a commercial compost facility near you, visit our find a composter page.
Vermicomposting
Earthworm digestion is at the center of vermicomposting. During this type of aerobic composting, earthworms consume the materials in the compost and as a result, these foods and goods break down and positively enrich their environment. Similar to aerobic digestion, homeowners who wish to participate in vermicomposting can do so. All it takes is the knowledge of earthworm species you’ll need!
Bokashi Composting
Bokashi composting is one that anyone can do, even in their own home! This is a form of anaerobic composting, and to begin the process, kitchen scraps, including dairy and meat products, are placed in a bucket along with bran. Over time, the bran will ferment kitchen waste and produce a liquid that nourishes plants of all kinds.
Learn more about Bokashi composting.
Compostable Products
Nearly all of our products are able to be composted in an anaerobic environment. To find the ones you need for your home or business, view our entire collection of biodegradable products and choose the quantity and size options that work best for you.
Once they’ve arrived and you have used them, simply dispose of them in a composting facility and you will have successfully taken part in guilt-free composting!
