WELCOME TO THE COMPOSTING CHALLENGE 2011

My name is Jana and I am a creator of this blog. This year, I decided to start my first garden composting. I would like to find at least other 100 people to join me in this challenge. Together we can use valuable organic waste, which would otherwise end up in landfills, to enhance the quality of soil in our local communities.

Did you know that food waste represents the third largest source of municipal solid waste in the US? This accounts for more than 14.1% of the total municipal solid waste stream. In addition, yard trimmings represent another 13.7% of municipal waste! What is alarming it the fact that only 3% of the food waste generated in 2009 was recovered and recycled, the rest was thrown away into landfills or incinerators. (Source: U.S. EPA)

The food waste and other organic matter that ends up in landfills create methane, a green house gas that is 21 times more potent than carbon dioxide (CO₂). According to IPCC’s SAR (Intergovernmental Panel of Climate Change, Second Assessment Report) this means that the ability of methane to trap the heat in the atmosphere is 21 times higher when compared to CO₂ over a 100-year time period. By removing the food waste and other organic matter from the landfills, we can reduce the greenhouse gas emissions (GHG), improve soil health and structure, increase drought resistance, and reduce the need for supplemental water, fertilizers, and pesticides. (Source: U.S. EPA)

Now you know more about composting and its numerous benefits. Are you ready to take the challenge and start your own compost? All you need to do is fill out a simple survey so we can track our progress, make or buy your own composting bin and follow this blog for helpful tips and advice. You can also share your own experiences, concerns and success stories with others right in this blog!