From pea pods to pizza boxes, biodegradables make up an estimated 40-60 percent of a typical municipal waste stream. By definition, a zero waste strategy must include composting because landfilling and incineration bury or burn organic matter, wasting this valuable resource. True sustainability — for the municipal solid waste stream and beyond — begins and ends with compost.
Why high-rate composting for urban organics?
Modern organics demand more sophisticated technologies than older processes can deliver.
Could the reluctance to embrace curbside collection and source separation be more psychological than factual?
Are we willing to generate energy at any cost, even if it means destroying our soils?
Estimating volumes for composting
Before developing budgets and getting quotes, you need to know generation rates.
Comparing waste management technologies
Facing a waste management decision? Question sources and ask for more info to level the playing field.
Modern materials demand modern technologies if recovering urban organics is to be accomplished with economy and efficiency.
Compostable and biodegradable plastics – are they the same?
Look for certifications to make sure your degradable plastics are okay for commercial composting.
Comparing waste management technologies
Asking the right questions can ensure apples-to-apples data comparisons.
Build modern composting infrastructure without public financing
Tight city budgets may not be a problem if governments offer the right incentives to commercial composting companies.
Any waste derived from plants or animals is organic … but don’t confuse this scientific term with marketing lingo.
No curbside services in your town? No worries. There are always more options.
When mixed paper and OCC are in freefall
Unstable recyclables markets are nothing new. Get an “alt” plan in place that includes diversion to composting.
A compostable label doesn’t guarantee the product or packaging will be composted.
Published: August 22, 2019
Updated: March 25, 2020
