Importance of Composting
The composting of waste materials provides a natural system of ‘reuse’, ultimately by returning nutrients to the soil. Composted material contains a useful source of nitrogen, phosphorous, potassium and secondary nutrients such as calcium, sulphur and magnesium.
These properties are released slowly and over a prolonged period into the soil. The composting process requires a mixture of nitrogen and carbon (the C:N Ratio), or organic (putrescible) waste and woody waste.
Compost helps combat climate impact
Already, our changing, warming climate and shrinking average rainfall levels are presenting huge problems for gardens, lawns, turf and plants. This situation will only worsen.
Fortunately, compost is a moisture-holding material that will be used extensively in the future to help combat drought and low rainfall conditions.
The organic matter in compost increases the soil's water-holding capacity. This helps the soil to absorb water during rainfall or watering, and holds it for the use of the plants during prolonged dry periods.
Adding compost also helps prevent wind and water erosion by increasing the availability of water and nutrients to plants, which results in rapid, strong plant growth in areas prone to this natural, but sometimes devastating process.
Environmental Benefits of Compost
Environmental Rationale
Avoiding Landfill & Incineration
