Composting is a natural and sustainable way of dealing with the organic solid waste.
Nutrient Balance
Controlled decomposition, requires a proper balance of “green” organic materials and “brown” organic materials. “Green” organic material includes grass clippings, food scraps, and manure, which contain large amounts of nitrogen. “Brown” organic materials include dry leaves, wood chips, and branches, which contain large amounts of carbon but little nitrogen.
Particle Size
Grinding, chipping, and shredding materials increases the surface area on which microorganisms can feed. Smaller particles also produce a more homogeneous compost mixture and improve pile insulation to help maintain optimum temperatures. If the particles are too small they might prevent air from flowing freely through the pile.
Moisture Content
Microorganisms living in a compost pile need enough moisture to survive. Water is the key element that helps transports substances within the compost pile and makes the nutrients in organic material accessible to the microbes. Organic material contains some moisture in varying amounts, but moisture also might come in the form of rainfall or intentional watering.
Oxygen Flow
Turning the pile, placing the pile on a series of pipes, or including bulking agents such as wood chips and shredded newspaper all help aerate the pile. Aerating the pile allows decomposition to occur at a faster rate than anaerobic conditions. However, too much oxygen can dry out the pile and impede the composting process.
Temperature
Microorganisms require a certain temperature range for optimal activity. Certain temperatures promote rapid composting and destroy pathogens and weed seeds. Microbial activity can raise the temperature of the pile’s core to at least 70°C. If the temperature does not increase, anaerobic conditions occur which means rotting of the pile. Controlling the previous four factors can bring about the proper temperature.
