Have you ever wondered what happens to your food scraps and yard waste after they're picked up by your local waste management company? Chances are, they end up in an industrial composting facility. These large-scale operations help divert organic waste from landfills and transform it into nutrient-rich compost. But what exactly is industrial composting, and how does the process work? In this article, we'll explore the different types of industrial composting systems so you can better understand what happens to your waste.
**What Is Industrial Composting?**
Industrial composting is the large-scale processing of organic waste into compost. It helps prevent biodegradable materials from ending up in landfills and allows commercial composting companies to create a valuable product from garden waste and food scraps that would otherwise be discarded. The process is based on the same principle as a home compost pile, but on a much larger scale.
The industrial composting process accelerates the decomposition of organic matter using various techniques. At the end of the process, the compostable materials are transformed into nutrient-rich soil that can be used to grow fruits and vegetables. One of the main benefits of industrial composting is that it diverts organic waste like yard trimmings and leftover food away from landfills. This is important because untreated green waste can produce methane, a harmful greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change.
**What Is Compostable?**
Industrial composting facilities can process everything you can at home, as well as a wide range of other biodegradable products. For example, they can handle food waste including bones and grease, and even compostable plastics. Here are some examples of waste that can be processed in a commercial composting facility:
- Meat
- Avocado and mango pits
- Raw mussel shells
- Fish bones
- Chicken bones
- Dairy products
- Baked goods
- Cardboard covered in food residues
- Bio-solids
- Animal manure
- All food scraps
- Bioplastic
**How Does Industrial Composting Work?**
Industrial composting works by creating the optimal conditions for the breakdown of compostable materials. This involves maintaining the right temperature, humidity, and airflow, and in some methods, turning the compost regularly to support microorganisms and speed up the process.
Many industrial composting companies collect waste from their clients, similar to curbside recycling programs. They might process grass clippings from landscaping companies or food waste from restaurants. Some facilities also allow customers to drop off waste directly. Once processed, the finished compost is sold to farmers, gardeners, and other end users.
**Different Methods of Industrial Composting**
There are four main industrial composting methods:
1. **Vermicomposting**: Uses worms to break down organic matter into high-quality soil. While effective, it's not always the most efficient method for large-scale operations.
2. **Windrow Composting**: Involves long rows of organic waste that are turned regularly to promote decomposition. This method typically takes around four months.
3. **Static Pile Composting**: Organic matter is mixed with dry materials like wood chips to allow natural aeration without frequent turning.
4. **In-Vessel Composting (IVC)**: Considered the most cost-effective and fastest method. Organic matter is placed in a machine that controls temperature, oxygen, and moisture, allowing compost to be made in just one month.
**Difference Between Industrial and Home Composting**
One key difference between industrial and home composting is time. Industrial composting creates ideal conditions for faster decomposition, making it more profitable. Another difference is the variety of waste that can be composted—industrial facilities can handle items like bioplastics and bones, which aren't suitable for home bins.
**Common Problems That Can Occur During Composting**
Contamination is one of the most common issues in industrial composting. Non-biodegradable materials mixed in with organic waste can affect the quality of the final product and complicate the process.
**Final Thoughts**
Industrial composting plays a vital role in sustainability efforts. The more municipal solid waste that’s composted, the less ends up in landfills, benefiting both the environment and businesses aiming for zero waste. Plus, it produces a valuable resource that helps grow crops and improve soil quality.
Find out more and learn how Zero Waste can help you achieve your sustainability goals by exploring our website or contacting a member of our team today.
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