The first week of May is International Composting Awareness Week (ICAW). Compost is important for improving or maintaining soil health, growing healthy plants, reducing the use of fertilizer and pesticides, improving water quality, and protecting the environment.
The theme for this year's ICAW theme is "Grow, EAT...COMPOST…Repeat" which highlights the circularity of the composting process, where materials flow from the farm or garden to the table, and back to the soil allowing us to grow more food. Composting is also one action that we can all take to prevent climate change. When food scraps and other organic materials are sent to the landfill, they break down anaerobically (without oxygen) producing methane. Methane is a powerful greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change. Composting, however, is an aerobic process (with oxygen) so it helps prevent or reduce the amount of methane emitted into the atmosphere during decomposition. You can reduce methane emissions and take action against climate change by composting at home.
Although it may seem intimidating, composting is easy, and you can start making a big difference right away! The City of Ventura offers a compost bin rebate program for residents. Just print out a coupon and bring proof of residency to Green Thumb to take advantage of this offer. Alternatively, you can build a DIY Worm Bin (see the video below). Visit the City of Ventura's website for tips on setting up or maintaining your worm bin. Happy composting!
