Composting diverts organic waste, such as kitchen scraps and yard trimmings, from landfills. This helps reduce the volume of waste sent to landfills, decreasing the environmental impact of methane gas emissions associated with organic waste decomposition in landfills.
Compost is a nutrient-rich soil conditioner that improves soil structure, water retention, and nutrient content. It enhances soil fertility, promoting healthier plant growth and increasing crop yields in gardens and agriculture.
Compost provides a natural and organic alternative to chemical fertilizers. By enriching the soil with compost, there is less reliance on synthetic fertilizers, reducing the environmental impact of chemical runoff and potential harm to ecosystems.
Improved soil structure from compost helps soil retain water, reducing the need for irrigation. This is especially valuable in areas facing water scarcity or drought conditions, which has been on the forefront of concerns due to increasingly threatening droughts in the Northeast region over the past couple of years.
The organics diversion requirements of Vermont's Universal Recycling Law (Act 148) were phased in over several years, with a focus on large generators of food scraps and leaf and yard debris initially. By July 1, 2020, the law required all Vermonters, including households, to divert food scraps from the trash. This means residents are encouraged to compost their food waste, either through home composting, dropping off at local composting facilities, or using municipal composting programs.
Composting initiatives can bring communities together, fostering a sense of shared responsibility for the environment. Community composting programs create opportunities for collaboration and environmental stewardship.
