Backyard Bounty

As we’ve touched on thus far, sustainability does not need to be all-encompassing. There are ways to reduce your food waste without feeling like a full blown hippie (if that’s not your style).

Composting:

60% of landfills are full of organic matter and because landfills are not aerated, there is no space for decomposition to take place. The waste sits there, perfectly preserved, constantly releasing methane gas. Composting is a fun and easy way to offset your carbon footprint by ensuring the proper decomposition of excess organic food.

I have done the research and offer you a quick and easy guide on how to create your very own backyard compost!

To start:

1. Find an accessible space in your yard for a container or bin of your choice. 
   1. You can build your own from wood, an old garbage can, or from cinder blocks; though many are conveniently available for purchase online.
   2. Ensure it is property sealed to prevent rodent intervention.
2. Gather starting materials (not limited to the following).
   1. Wet (green, nitrogen) materials:
      1. Eggshells
      2. Weeds
      3. Manure
      4. Fruit and vegetable scraps
   2. Dry (brown, carbon) materials:
      1. Cardboard
      2. Straw and/or hay
      3. Dead leaves
      4. Dead grass clippings

3. Add your scraps!

Why?

You will want to alternate dry and wet foundation materials for microorganisms to grow and efficiently decompose the organic food waste. Contrary to popular belief, you do not need to add your own worms – they will most likely find their own way in! Let the foundations settle and mix for about two weeks before adding in your compostable scraps. 

What is Compostable? A Quick, Succinct Reference List:

• Herbs and Spices.
• Beans and legumes.
• Coffee grounds. 
• Vegetable and fruit scraps:
  • Avocado, apple cores, melon rinds, lettuce, etc.
• Tofu!
• Stale Bread.
• Crumbs of dry kitchen browns.
• Grains (pasta, rice, etc.).
• Nut shells.
• Chopped up seed and fruit pits.
• Teabags.
• Recyclable paper:
  • Newspaper, cardboard boxes, paper napkins, lunch sacks, etc.
• Dead lawn and garden clippings.

By creating and using your very own compost, you can reduce your waste up to 50%. While recycling still requires energy, composting does not. It is a simple and sustainable way to cut down on your landfill contribution. Composting can also allow you to spice up your diet by keeping you accountable for eating fresh, organic foods. I encourage you to further educate yourself on meals that incorporate compostable foods. Not only will you feel better by reducing your carbon footprint, but your body will feel better as well.