Komposteerida

Komposteerida is the Estonian verb meaning to compost. Composting is a natural biological process where organic matter, such as food scraps and yard waste, is decomposed by microorganisms into a nutrient-rich soil amendment called compost. This process can be carried out in various settings, from home gardens to large-scale industrial facilities.

The materials suitable for composting include fruit and vegetable scraps, coffee grounds, tea bags, eggshells, grass clippings, leaves, and small twigs. It is generally advised to avoid composting meat, dairy products, oily foods, and diseased plants, as these can attract pests or spread pathogens. A proper compost pile requires a balance of "green" materials (nitrogen-rich, like food scraps) and "brown" materials (carbon-rich, like dry leaves and cardboard) to facilitate decomposition.

Composting offers several environmental benefits. It diverts organic waste from landfills, where it can produce methane, a potent greenhouse gas. The resulting compost improves soil structure, water retention, and fertility, reducing the need for synthetic fertilizers. This process can be done in different ways, including open piles, enclosed bins, or specialized compost tumblers. Maintaining adequate moisture and aeration is crucial for efficient composting. The time it takes for organic matter to decompose into usable compost varies depending on the method used and the environmental conditions, but can range from a few weeks to several months.