KOCHI: If there is one sustainable action every citizen can take to make a difference to this planet and to the health of their family – it is home composting.
Composting is the breakdown of organic matter under optimum conditions by millions of microorganisms. These microorganisms will eat, multiply, and convert organic matter into compost. You do not need to be a microbiologist or have a degree in agriculture to make successful compost. You just need to provide food, moisture and air to the microorganisms.
When we compost, the cost of trash removal is reduced, as is the volume of solid materials that reach the landfills. In urban homes, we can all compost successfully if we understand the process properly. The reasons most people give for not composting are as follows:
These reasons can be easily overcome if people realise the importance of taking responsibility for the garbage they generate.
Here are the five things needed to do aerobic composting successfully, at zero cost:
1.Container – take any bucket or drum with lid, and punch small holes along the sides and the lid for air circulation
2.Greens – the kitchen waste: peels of fruits and vegetables, eggshells, flowers, tea leaves and coffee grounds (till you get comfortable with the composting process, avoid adding cooked food, dairy, bakery products and non-veg waste). This is the nitrogen component that provides protein to the composting microorganisms.
3.Browns – dry leaves or cocopeat or untreated sawdust. This is the carbon component that provides energy.
4.Microorganisms – one tablespoon of fresh cowdung slurry or sour buttermilk. Greens, browns and microorganisms should be mixed together.
5.Air – the mix should be turned well once in 4-5 days to keep it aerobic.
If followed correctly, this process will create lovely, rich, black compost that smells like the soil after the first rain! And the soil will love it! Food grown in this soil is chemical-free, healthy and wholesome. Growing food in urban spaces like terraces and balconies is a natural progression from urban home composting. Both practices are fun yet meditative, keeps the nurturing part of us alive, and completely connects us to nature!
The phenomenon of urban farming is becoming hugely popular. Everyone should learn this life skill, as growing safe food is becoming more and more necessary in view of the heavy chemical use in growing food. This is not only destroying the soil, but also putting POISON on our plates! All kinds of vegetables, greens, and even fruits can be grown in urban homes. Using the right combination of sun, water, soil and air, an urban family can grow at least a part of their daily meal. This connects us to the cycle of life, and leads to a healthier life for us and a healthier planet.
— The writer is a waste-management expert