2. Recycling Recycling - one of comprehensive methods of environmental protection. Its aim is to reduce consumption of natural resources and reduce waste.
3. Composting Composting (organic recycling) - a natural method of disposal and waste management, involving the decomposition of organic matter by micro-organisms - aerobic bacteria, nematodes, etc.. It is the processing of the substance under controlled conditions in the presence of oxygen (air) at a suitable temperature and humidity.
4. Purpose of composting The purpose of building a system of composting is to provide a healthy and nutrient-rich living environment for bacteria. The fastest composting occurs when the ratio of carbon to nitrogen in the environment is 25:1 - 30:1. For example, cut grass, this is a ratio of 19:1 and autumn leaves - 55:1. Mixing these two ingredients in equal proportions gives a ratio of nutrients. In industrial composting observe this relationship quite closely, in the case of household composting is too complicated and easier to apply more recipes.
5. Types of composting Backyard composting — If you have a yard and a balance of browns (fallen leaves or straw) and greens (grass clippings and food scraps), you have all you need to make compost. Worm composting (vermicomposting) — If you have a tiny yard or live in an apartment or have an abundance of food scraps, this type of composting is for you.
6. GrasscyclingIf you have grass clippings and don't want to use them in a compost pile you can leave them on the lawn to decompose.
7. 10 good reasons why you should compost: Yard and food waste make up 30% of the waste stream. Composting your kitchen and yard trimmings helps divert that waste from the landfill, waterways and water treatment facilities. You will significantly reduce pest problems–and your use of pesticides. Healthy plants from healthy soil look better, produce better and have a much greater ability to fight off pests and diseases. Adding organic materials to the soil improves moisture retention.
8. Adding decomposed organic material to the soil feeds beneficial organisms. Compost amends both sandy and clay soils. Compost provides a balanced, slow–release source of nutrients that helps the soil hold nutrients long enough for plants to use them.
9. Composting saves money–you avoid the cost of buying soil conditioners, baggedmanure etc. Feeding your plants well will improve your own diet. Plants grown in depleted soils have a reduced nutrient content. Home composting is a valuable tool in educating children about nature and the cycle of life.
10. Backyard Composting Basics Nature has been composting since the beginning of the earth. All organic matter eventually breaks down. Composting in your backyard uses the same principles that nature uses - we just try to speed it up by creating an environment that supports microbial activity. The elements necessary to promote this environment are: - Air - Moisture - Organic matter - Carbon to nitrogen ratio - Temperature - Volume
