What if I told you that one small change in your kitchen could leave the planet in a better place? Sounds kind of crazy, right? Well, it’s true. Composting is an extremely easy way to add nutrients to the soil, recycle food scraps, reduce landfill waste and improve air quality. And all you have to do is put your food and yard scraps into a compost bin instead of a trash bag! It’s the easiest way to save the planet!
Let’s start with the basics. Whenever you throw food into the garbage, it eventually goes into a landfill. Unfortunately, food can’t properly decompose there, so it emits greenhouse gases instead. Composting offers a healthier alternative! Food scraps and plant-based items in your compost bin go back into rich soil, which is better for you and the planet.
So, what can you put in a compost bin? Basically anything! However, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recommends putting “brown, green, and water” in your compost bin. Browns refer to dead leaves, branches, and twigs, while green materials are grass clippings, fruit and vegetable scraps, and coffee grounds. Having water within your compost bin ensures that you have consistent moisture throughout the bin.
I know you might think that you can’t compost because your apartment or condo doesn’t have a backyard. Well, good news, that’s not necessarily true! There are plenty of services in Chicago that make composting super easy, convenient, and inexpensive. You can visit Block Bins or The Urban Canopy to learn more!
Are you lucky enough to have a yard? You can compost your leaves and grass too! Chicago’s Yard Waste Program is a great program that effectively conserves landfill space, reduces pollution, and creates healthy soil. All you have to do is collect your leaves and grass in a paper or plastic bag & call 311 to order a free pickup.
Any other questions about composting? Give us a call!
By: Kate Quill
