Purchasing the best compost relies on the needs of your garden. Compost comes in two primary varieties: garden compost and industrial compost. Garden compost is often prepared by individuals in their own backyards from items like grass clippings, leaves, and culinary leftovers. On the other hand, commercial compost is produced by businesses and sold in stores using a combination of organic ingredients.
Look for commercial compost that has been certified by the Organic Materials Review Institute (OMRI) while shopping. The compost is guaranteed to be made from organic sources and devoid of synthetic chemicals thanks to this certification. A compost that has been aged for at least six months will be fully decomposed and suitable for use in your garden, so check for that type of compost as well. Why is compost harmful to the environment?
In fact, composting is good for the environment since it lowers the quantity of organic waste dumped in landfills and produces a natural fertilizer for plants. On the other hand, poorly maintained compost can harm the environment. For instance, improper aeration of compost can result in the production of methane gas, a powerful greenhouse gas that accelerates climate change. Compost can also attract bugs and cause odor issues for surrounding residents if it is not adequately confined. How Much of Our Waste Can Be Compostable?
About 30% of the garbage produced in the US is compostable, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This includes organic wastes like food scraps and yard garbage. We can lessen the quantity of waste that is disposed of in landfills and provide a useful resource for our gardens by composting these materials. How Many Americans Use Compost, on Average?
Even while composting is becoming more and more popular, very few Americans now do it. Approximately 5% of Americans composted in 2015, according to an EPA poll. However, as more people become aware of the advantages of composting and the availability of composting services, it is anticipated that this figure will rise in the upcoming years.
The best brand of compost to purchase will depend on your gardening requirements, but search for items that have been matured for at least six months and have received certification from the Organic Materials Review Institute (OMRI). Although composting is not harmful to the environment, it must be properly handled to prevent unfavorable effects. Although just a small minority of Americans currently compost, this number is anticipated to rise over the next few years. Approximately 30% of our waste is compostable.