Why Should I Compost?

With the addition of many exciting new composting tools to the market in the past several years, many people may be asking themselves the same question. “I know that composting is getting more and more common, but really, why should I compost?” Well, there are many reasons to start composting. They generally fall into two main benefits. The first is the positive impact it can have locally, in our gardens. The second is the benefit it can have on the environment.

Garden Benefits:

Compost Improves Your Soil

Composting creates nutrients that when added to ordinary soil help to increase plant growth and health. The nutrients contained in compost are often absent in store bought fertilizers. Plant growth is more productive when provided a nutrient rich base for growing. Root penetration is better when compost is present as well.

Compost also improves the soil's ability to retain moisture and stabilize temperature. Erratic temperature changes are detrimental to plant growth. Compost battles this problem with its dark color, absorbing heat and keeping root growth insulated through changes in temperature. Also, water dispersion and run off are decreased. Compost helps to retain the proper moisture level, an aspect critical to healthy plant growth.

Composting Saves Money

As mentioned, compost is a superior alternative to synthetic fertilizer. Money can be saved by turning your otherwise discarded waste into useful compost rather than purchasing expensive commercial fertilizer.

You can use compost to help grow fruits and vegetables, decreasing the amount of produce you purchase from grocery stores. As an additional benefit, the food you grow will be truly organic, since it was grown without the help of synthetic fertilizers. This can be considered an additional cost saving since stores tend to charge more for organically grown products.

Composting Is Fun!

Composting, and using your compost to grow plants and vegetables can create a sense of self reliance. It doesn't take much effort to change the habits necessary to create a successful compost pile. Once you do, you are sure to enjoy the result.

Also, children can get into the habit of composting early. It is a process that kids are naturally drawn to, especially since it involves playing in dirt! Children can learn a lot about how nature works by observing and participating in the creation of a compost pile. This also can instill a sense of responsibility toward the environment and create good waste management habits early.

Environmental Benefits:

Composting Conserves Landfill Space

The majority of the trash that we throw away can be composted. If we can reduce the amount of yard and kitchen waste we throw out, we can greatly reduce the amount that ends up in landfills.

Much of the organic waste that is taken to landfills is incinerated. Incineration can create air pollution in addition to create the release of dangerous greenhouse gasses. These gasses are believed to be a key factor in contributing to global warming.

Composting Reduces Pollution

If left to decompose in landfills, compostable materials emit methane gas. This emission has more effect on climate change than carbon dioxide. Some organic material can react with metal in landfills, producing a toxic substance that can contribute to groundwater pollution.

Also, using compost rather than chemical fertilizer decreases the chances of fertilizer run-off leeching into groundwater or other unintended areas.