Food waste is a major global issue, contributing to landfill overflow and greenhouse gas emissions. Instead of throwing away food scraps, composting allows you to turn organic waste into nutrient-rich soil for your plants. Whether you live in a house with a backyard or a small apartment, composting is a simple and effective way to reduce waste.
In this guide, we’ll explore what composting is, how it works, and how you can start composting at home.
1. What Is Composting and Why Does It Matter?
Composting is the natural process of decomposing organic matter, such as food scraps and plant waste, into fertile soil. This method:
- Reduces landfill waste – Food scraps make up about 30% of household waste.
- Cuts methane emissions – Organic waste in landfills produces harmful greenhouse gases.
- Creates free, organic fertilizer – Compost improves soil health and reduces the need for chemical fertilizers.
By composting, you turn waste into a valuable resource while helping the environment.
2. Choosing the Right Composting Method
The best composting method depends on your living space and preferences. Here are three popular options:
a) Backyard Composting (Traditional Compost Pile or Bin)
Best for: Homes with outdoor space.
- Requires a compost bin or designated area in your yard.
- Needs a mix of “green” (wet) and “brown” (dry) materials for balance.
- Requires occasional turning to speed up decomposition.
b) Vermicomposting (Using Worms to Break Down Waste)
Best for: Small apartments, balconies, or indoor composting.
- Uses red worms to break down organic matter.
- Requires a worm bin with air holes for ventilation.
- Produces worm castings, which are a powerful natural fertilizer.
c) Bokashi Composting (Fermentation-Based Composting)
Best for: Indoor spaces or people who want a faster process.
- Uses a Bokashi bin and special microorganisms to break down food waste.
- Ferments food quickly, even meat and dairy, which are not usually compostable.
- Creates a liquid fertilizer that can be used for plants.
3. What Can and Can’t Be Composted?
✅ Compostable Items (What to Add to Your Compost Bin)
To create balanced compost, use a mix of green (nitrogen-rich) and brown (carbon-rich) materials.
Green Materials (High in Nitrogen)
- Fruit and vegetable scraps
- Coffee grounds and tea leaves
- Grass clippings
- Eggshells
Brown Materials (High in Carbon)
- Dry leaves and twigs
- Cardboard and shredded newspaper
- Sawdust (from untreated wood)
- Paper towels (if not soiled with chemicals)
❌ What NOT to Compost
Some materials attract pests or slow down decomposition. Avoid:
- Meat, fish, and dairy products
- Oily or greasy food scraps
- Plastic, glass, or metal
- Pet waste
4. How to Set Up Your Composting System
For Backyard Composting
- Choose a compost bin or designated area.
- Layer materials – Start with a base of dry leaves, then alternate between green and brown layers.
- Keep it moist, but not too wet. Compost should feel like a damp sponge.
- Turn the pile every few weeks to speed up decomposition.
For Vermicomposting (Using Worms)
- Get a worm bin with air holes.
- Add bedding material (shredded newspaper, leaves, or coconut coir).
- Introduce red worms and feed them small amounts of food scraps.
- Keep the bin in a cool, dark place and avoid overfeeding.
For Bokashi Composting
- Get a Bokashi bin and Bokashi bran (special microbes).
- Add food scraps and sprinkle Bokashi bran over each layer.
- Press down materials to remove air pockets.
- Drain liquid regularly – it can be used as a natural fertilizer.
- Once full, let it ferment for 2 weeks, then bury it in soil or mix it into compost.
5. How to Maintain Your Compost Pile
To keep compost healthy and odor-free, follow these tips:
- Balance Green and Brown Materials – A good ratio is 1 part green to 2 parts brown.
- Turn or mix the pile regularly – This improves airflow and speeds up decomposition.
- Keep it moist – If compost is too dry, add water; if too wet, add dry leaves or paper.
- Avoid large chunks – Chop food scraps into smaller pieces for faster breakdown.
6. How Long Does Composting Take?
The composting process depends on the method used and how well it’s maintained:
- Traditional compost piles: 3 to 6 months.
- Vermicomposting (worm composting): 2 to 3 months.
- Bokashi composting: 2 to 4 weeks (then needs to be buried in soil).
Once ready, compost looks like dark, crumbly soil and has an earthy smell.
7. How to Use Finished Compost
When your compost is ready, use it to enrich your soil and plants:
- Mix it into garden beds to improve soil quality.
- Sprinkle it around plants as a natural fertilizer.
- Use it in potted plants for better growth.
- Make compost tea (soak compost in water for a day) to create a liquid plant fertilizer.
Using compost reduces the need for chemical fertilizers, making your plants healthier and more resilient.
Final Thoughts
Composting is one of the simplest and most impactful ways to reduce food waste while creating natural fertilizer for your plants. Whether you have a backyard or live in a small apartment, there’s a composting method that suits your space and lifestyle.
By turning food scraps into nutrient-rich compost, you help reduce landfill waste, lower carbon emissions, and create healthier soil. Start composting today and take a big step toward a more sustainable lifestyle!