Frequently asked questions about composters.
Composters are recycled plastic bins for the garden. All composters have a lid and hatch. Over a period of time the garden waste deposited in the composter will break down into a compost like material that can be reused on the garden.
The majority of waste is disposed of in landfill sites throughout the country. The council is committed to reducing the amount of waste sent to landfill sites, in accordance with the National Waste Strategy 2000. The Strategy specifies that we must recycle or compost 40% of household waste by 2010. As a council we are dependant upon the help and support of our residents to enable these targets to be met.
Did you know that 20% of the average household dustbin is comprised of organic material?
Organic waste is biodegradable and when it is buried in landfill sites it rots and produces methane gas. Methane gas can escape into buildings near landfill sites and lead to explosions. It is not necessary to send organic waste to landfill sites as it can be converted into a useful product by householders. Compost bins can be purchased which convert food waste and other organic material into compost. Composting is one of the Best Practicable Environmental Options for the reduction of waste to landfill. It is possible to reduce 20% of the waste in a bin without causing any environmental damage. This is more environmentally friendly than recycling as no energy input is required for transport or in the recycling process.
For the best results from your compost bin it should be positioned in a sunny spot on well drained soil. The soil below the bin should be loosened to improve drainage and increase access for worms and bacteria. Place a few inches of kitchen waste on the soil at the bottom of the bin, this will attract worms and bacteria to the bin and increase the rate of compost formation. For the best results, organic waste should be put in the bin in layers of different material between 6 to 12 cm deep.
You can compost almost anything that is organic, i.e. anything that has been grown. This includes:
The following can not be put into your composter
For best results, ensure your compost bin contains some grass cuttings or vegetarian animal manure. They heat up and speed up the composting process. However they should be mixed with other organic waste to avoid slime formation.
It is essential that your compost bin is kept warm and moist. Placing the bin in the sun and out of the wind is therefore preferable. Ensure you always put the lid on your compost bin and do not let the compost dry out.
To ensure that air is getting to the centre of the bin, turn the material regularly. This will also speed up the decomposition process.
Your compost is ready for use when the material does not resemble anything that you put in the bin. Collect the compost from the small hatch at the bottom of the bin. The compost can then be spread on the garden where it will act as a fertiliser.
A wide range of other home composters and composting accessories are available by visiting the Council’s partnership website.
Alternatively, residents can order their home compost bins by calling the composting helpline on 08445 714444, where residents can also receive helpful composting tips and advice from the composting team on how to get started.
