The Composting Process

Bulletin 792

What alternative composting methods are being evaluated?

Research on composting alternatives continues. These research efforts address odor control, toxic contamination, disease suppression, aeration requirements, moisture control, materials handling and ways to measure compost maturity.

Research and demonstration results of new compost handling methods are reported in trade magazines, scientific journals and conference proceedings. When considering these new approaches, do your homework:

• Look for controlled studies that compare statistically evaluated results.
• Avoid reports based on testimonials.
• Contact and/or visit operations using a new technology to evaluate the system firsthand.
• When adopting a new approach, start small. Establish a pilot-scale treatment system or rent new equipment before making a major investment.
• Work with registered professionals and consultants.

Composting is the biological decomposition of organic wastes under controlled conditions to a state where storage, handling and land application can be achieved without adversely affecting the environment.

Under ideal conditions, a single microorganism can multiply into millions. The typical life span for a microorganism is only 20 to 30 minutes.

Bacteria and fungi in compost can decompose nearly everything. They can usually produce the enzymes needed to digest whatever material they find themselves on. People working in composting plants tend to be as healthy as the average person in society. However, individuals with an impaired lung capacity should not be employed in dusty environments such as composting plants.