Compulsory composting: instructions for use
Biowaste (or organic waste) is food waste, as well as waste from balcony or garden maintenance (clippings, dead leaves, twigs, pruning, wilted flowers, etc.). They represent around 30% of our household waste – or on average 83.5 kg per year per person.
Until now, organic waste was incinerated. However, they have the particularity of being biodegradable. As they decompose, they produce nitrogen or carbon. Sorting at source aims to revalue them by transforming them into fertilizer or producing biogas, while also reducing the carbon footprint linked to waste incineration.
Among the biowaste that we put in the compost: spoiled fruits and vegetables, egg shells, loose tea, peelings, coffee grounds, and all leftovers from meals.
Concretely, we place this waste in a compost bucket, while waiting to transfer it to a collector or into its own composter. Indeed, if the community with “waste collection” skills in your area is required to offer you a collection solution, you can of course make your own compost. If you live in an apartment, simply opt for the ultra-compact worm composter, which can be placed on the balcony or even indoors.
How to choose the right compost bucket?
Organic waste has the particularity of quickly starting to decompose, a process releasing heat and causing bad odors and the appearance of insects. To avoid these inconveniences, and to preserve hygiene in the kitchen, you must first choose your compost bucket carefully. Its capacity must be adapted to the quantity of organic waste you produce.
Metal or ceramic should be preferred to plastic, which deforms in the medium term under the effect of the heat released by decomposition. It is important that it has a lid that closes well and is perfectly airtight. The compost bucket generally has a carbon filter to prevent bad odors. Finally, make sure its handle is sturdy!
The good news is that if you have taken care to pamper the kitchen decor, you can easily find a designer compost bin, in addition to being functional!
Compost bucket: which location to avoid at all costs?
For obvious hygiene reasons, it is not recommended to install your compost bucket in the immediate vicinity of food preparation areas. We therefore avoid the work surface and the area located next to the cooking plate.
It is recommended to avoid two other types of locations for the compost bucket:
- Damp areas, especially under the sink, as the combination of darkness and humidity accelerates decomposition and encourages the appearance of mold;
- Areas near the oven or radiator, since heat also accelerates decomposition.
Ideally, the compost bucket should be placed in a well-ventilated space. If not in the kitchen, it may be better to install it on the balcony. If you still want to keep it in the kitchen, be sure to empty and clean it more frequently.