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Archive for the ‘Worm Composting’ Category
Friday, January 27th, 2012
The recycling efforts of New York City
New York has a remarkable way of making its presence known to the whole world. So other than being one of the fashion meccas, and being immediately recognized for the Statue of Liberty, is the city as notable when it comes to recycling? Well, the city is definitely getting there. Learn more about the recycling efforts of NYC by reading further of this article.
An innovated city should also be the greenest!
New York City’s mayor, Mr. Michael R. Bloomberg, believes that if NYC is recognized as one of the most state-of-the-art cities in the world, then it should also be the eco-friendliest. And by being maintaining a ‘green’ status, will the city be made more appealing to the most progressive and forward-thinking individuals and businesses.
Supporting NYC’s Recycling Plans
The mayor is deeply committed on advocating not just a New York City recycling program (a residential recycling program which has been neglected for quite some time now). He is also looking into other similar programs that will further boost the capital’s plans of recovering organic wastes, and preventing salvageable trash from building up in landfills. Other than that, Mayor Bloomberg is also aiming to achieve a garbage-less town. This will be done by targeting a certain percentage, which will be done by increasing the present 15% of garbage collections to 30%. It will be a plan that will be pursued up until the year 2017.
Composting and Recycling for NYC
Composting and recycling are two things that will always work well with each other. And this works especially well for the programs that has been plotted out for the city. Now several plans for the city have been thought of well, like the launching of two sites that will help accommodate recycling per se, and the production of compost (through a compost yard) using just organic wastes collected from residences and establishments. The mayor also urges to increase the number of public recycling containers from 600 to 1,000 pieces by the year 2014.
Challenging every New Yorkers efforts to be ‘green’
It’s usually easier said than done. That is why New Yorkers will be greatly challenged with the kind of commitment that the city expects from each one of them. Of course, fulfilling the exact details to the NYC recycling plan/guide is crucial, as well as providing for it the right execution. This will certainly be NYC’s biggest challenge yet.
More economical plans for NYC’s recycling programs
The city of New York is also planning on testing a few new machineries that specializes on creating renewable energy. New equipment will be tried out to see if they can start breaking down the city’s trash into electricity and heat. Now, a prospective recycling installation such as this will help keep out 135,000 tons worth of garbage out of the city, annually (according to recycling statistics).
New York has a remarkable way of making its presence known to the whole world. So other than being one of the fashion meccas, and being immediately recognized for the Statue of Liberty, is the city as notable when it comes to recycling? Well, the city is definitely getting there. Learn more about the recycling efforts of NYC by reading further of this article.
An innovated city should also be the greenest!
New York City’s mayor, Mr. Michael R. Bloomberg, believes that if NYC is recognized as one of the most state-of-the-art cities in the world, then it should also be the eco-friendliest. And by being maintaining a ‘green’ status, will the city be made more appealing to the most progressive and forward-thinking individuals and businesses.
Supporting NYC’s Recycling Plans
The mayor is deeply committed on advocating not just a New York City recycling program (a residential recycling program which has been neglected for quite some time now). He is also looking into other similar programs that will further boost the capital’s plans of recovering organic wastes, and preventing salvageable trash from building up in landfills. Other than that, Mayor Bloomberg is also aiming to achieve a garbage-less town. This will be done by targeting a certain percentage, which will be done by increasing the present 15% of garbage collections to 30%. It will be a plan that will be pursued up until the year 2017.
Composting and Recycling for NYC
Community composting and recycling are two things that will always work well with each other. And this works especially well for the programs that has been plotted out for the city. Now several plans for the city have been thought of well, like the launching of two sites that will help accommodate recycling per se, and the production of compost (through a compost yard) using just organic wastes collected from residences and establishments. The mayor also urges to increase the number of public recycling containers from 600 to 1,000 pieces by the year 2014.
Challenging every New Yorkers efforts to be ‘green’
It’s usually easier said than done. That is why New Yorkers will be greatly challenged with the kind of commitment that the city expects from each one of them. Of course, fulfilling the exact details to the NYC recycling plan/guide is crucial, as well as providing for it the right execution. This will certainly be NYC’s biggest challenge yet.
More economical plans for NYC’s recycling programs
The city of New York is also planning on testing a few new machineries that specializes on creating renewable energy. New equipment will be tried out to see if they can start breaking down the city’s trash into electricity and heat. Now, a prospective recycling installation such as this will help keep out 135,000 tons worth of garbage out of the city, annually (according to recycling statistics).
via: NYTimes. com
Posted in Worm Composting | No Comments »
Wednesday, January 25th, 2012
The process of worm composting has already been tried and tested. And the very by-product of it, which is referred to as worm castings, has been extensively used as a nutrient packed plant fertilizer and as a soil amendment. But other than its other effective functions, any red worms compost can also be used as an alternative medium for managing crop disease/s.
Worm composting and the creation of worm castings
Organic scraps such as a selection of leftovers from the kitchen or from the yard can be used as bedding material, and as a food source for the worms and live microbes. Composting with worms is basically a natural process that aids in converting organic refuse into a finer and richer garden resource. The worm castings, after being excreted by the worms will look just like the soil from the ground. It will come out as an odorless substance that is earthy in shade, and is crumbly in consistency.
Worm compost can also help fight off crop diseases
Worm compost isn’t just your alternative fertilizer or soil enhancer. It has also been discovered to have the capability to avert a certain pathogen that plagues most plants. Now according to the Western Farm Press, the researchers of Cornell University were able to prove this when they tested on different worm groups.
How gathering valuable research materials helps make a difference
Research that has been gathered earlier by Allison Jack (a Ph.D. student) from Professor Eric Nelson’s research group in the Department of Plant Pathology and Plant-Microbe Biology, discovered that the live microorganisms in the red wigglers castings were able to inhabit the exterior portions of the seed. An organic material is discharged, which then gives the seed the protection that it needs from the disease. The substance that is actually released will form an obstruction with the chemical amid the pathogen and the host.
Worm compost can also be a brutal substance
Worm compost can only post brutal for use when it is applied on plants that are potentially or presently weighed down by pathogens. Eric Carr, a master’s student from Professor Nelson’s test center, has been studying the other ‘suppressive qualities’ of a worm’s manure. Worm castings are tested on a certain pathogen and its different parts of its life cycle. Mr. Carr is constantly finding ways on how newly grown seedlings can be protected with just an application of worm compost, especially when pathogen spores attack.
The challenges that come with using worm compost
There are different kinds of compost used, for which thousands of microorganisms are also involved (particularly in worm composting). But only a few of these can help control specific crop diseases. So determining which ones are effective actually poses as a big challenge for scientists. But this has been eventually resolved through Allison Jack’s collaboration with Worm Power. Worm Power, an Avon, N.Y., company managed by Tom Herlihy, produces 2.5 million pounds of worm compost per annum. Since there is control and consistency in the production of compost, the quality and the composition of the vermicompost will fit well to Jack’s data gathering.
The process of worm composting has already been tried and tested. And the very by-product of it, which is referred to as worm castings, has been extensively used as a nutrient packed plant fertilizer and as a soil amendment. But other than its other effective functions, any red worms compost can also be used as an alternative medium for managing crop disease/s.
Worm composting and the creation of worm castings
Organic scraps such as a selection of leftovers from the kitchen or from the yard can be used as bedding material, and as a food source for the worms and live microbes. Composting with worms is basically a natural process that aids in converting organic refuse into a finer and richer garden resource. The worm castings, after being excreted by the worms will look just like the soil from the ground. It will come out as an odorless substance that is earthy in shade, and is crumbly in consistency.
Worm compost can also help fight off crop diseases
Worm compost isn’t just your alternative fertilizer or soil enhancer. It has also been discovered to have the capability to avert a certain pathogen that plagues most plants. Now according to the Western Farm Press, the researchers of Cornell University were able to prove this when they tested on different worm groups.
How gathering valuable research materials helps make a difference
Research that has been gathered earlier by Allison Jack (a Ph.D. student) from Professor Eric Nelson’s research group in the Department of Plant Pathology and Plant-Microbe Biology, discovered that the live microorganisms in the red wigglers castings were able to inhabit the exterior portions of the seed. An organic material is discharged, which then gives the seed the protection that it needs from the disease. The substance that is actually released will form an obstruction with the chemical amid the pathogen and the host.
Worm compost can also be a brutal substance
Worm compost can only post brutal for use when it is applied on plants that are potentially or presently weighed down by pathogens. Eric Carr, a master’s student from Professor Nelson’s test center, has been studying the other ‘suppressive qualities’ of a worm’s manure. Worm castings are tested on a certain pathogen and its different parts of its life cycle. Mr. Carr is constantly finding ways on how newly grown seedlings can be protected with just an application of worm compost, especially when pathogen spores attack.
The challenges that come with using worm compost
There are different kinds of compost used, for which thousands of microorganisms are also involved (particularly in worm composting). But only a few of these can help control specific crop diseases. So determining which ones are effective actually poses as a big challenge for scientists. But this has been eventually resolved through Allison Jack’s collaboration with Worm Power. Worm Power, an Avon, N.Y., company managed by Tom Herlihy, produces 2.5 million pounds of worm compost per annum. Since there is control and consistency in the production of compost, the quality and the composition of the vermicompost will fit well to Jack’s data gathering.
via: Westerfarmpress.com
Tags: Worm Composting
Posted in Worm Composting | No Comments »
Saturday, January 21st, 2012
Switzerland has been long considered as one of the countries in Europe that has paved the way to organic farming. The European state even has the ‘highest proportions of organic agricultural land in the world’, which has already gone to 11% today. Moreover, the system works for the country as the Swiss nation is set at reaping long-term sustenance and profits.
Why organic farming works for the Swiss
Farming organically helps the nation to be assured of safeguarding areas of longstanding natural land. In addition to that, farming in this manner also helps achieve the maintenance and protection of the environment. Farming by nature’s way also helps improve farming practices that may involve planting trees, etc. It has yet been a sustainable agriculture that comes with a lot of profits.
The good in percentages when farming organically
According to Hammerle Andrea (an organic farmer in Canton of Graubünden, Switzerland), eventhough natural farming offers ‘smaller output but better price’, several benefits will still spring up from this kind of system (take for example the organic farmers that receive more than 40,000 Swiss Franc every year, compared to an ordinary farmer). With natural farming techniques, two significant things can be put into perspective: (1) an assurance that there will be a market for organic crops, (2) and that there will be greater returns in spite of the exceptional prices offered. Non-organic crops may sell much cheaper. But organically produced crops (those that have been fertilized with natural-based products) will always have something more to offer to consumers in terms of quality, value and health.
Organic farmers get full support from the Swiss government
The organic farmers from Canton of Graubünden are into sustainable agriculture, which actually helps them to acquire more money from. Keeping up with a sustainable agriculture is also something that the Swiss government gives full support to, given that the minimum ecological standards are also met and followed by the farmers. Moreover, the Swiss government will only pay farmers who abide by the rules. These rules essentially involve a few important points: organic farmers are (1) obliged to keep the soils from reaching the point of erosion, (2) obliged to oversee a balance in 7% of their farming grounds (looking after a balance in nutritional content and diversity in live organisms), (3) and obliged to do crop rotations for at least four crops.
Soil organisms that thrive in fertile soil
Organic farms have long benefited from fertile soils that have been improved by the live organisms that are within its system. But what makes the soil fertile in its own way? The presence and work of varied types of live organisms such as compost worms, good bacteria, fungi, and other small insects, are what’s keeping the soil rich and healthy.
An Effective Organic Farming
If it worked in Switzerland, then organic farming will also be able to work for all the other parts of the world. Farming the natural way, and swaying off from all the chemical applications, will certainly provide long-term benefits for both humans and nature. Farming in nature’s way increases the fertility of the soil, controls potential diseases and pest attacks, and produces nutrient rich and high-grade food, without putting any more damage to the earth (amongst other values).
Switzerland has been long considered as one of the countries in Europe that has paved the way to organic farming. The European state even has the ‘highest proportions of organic agricultural land in the world’, which has already gone to 11% today. Moreover, the system works for the country as the Swiss nation is set at reaping long-term sustenance and profits.
Why organic farming works for the Swiss
Farming organically helps the nation to be assured of safeguarding areas of longstanding natural land. In addition to that, farming in this manner also helps achieve the maintenance and protection of the environment. Farming by nature’s way also helps improve farming practices that may involve planting trees, etc. It has yet been a sustainable agriculture that comes with a lot of profits.
The good in percentages when farming organically
According to Hammerle Andrea (an organic farmer in Canton of Graubünden, Switzerland), eventhough natural farming offers ‘smaller output but better price’, several benefits will still spring up from this kind of system (take for example the organic farmers that receive more than 40,000 Swiss Franc every year, compared to an ordinary farmer). With natural farming techniques, two significant things can be put into perspective: (1) an assurance that there will be a market for organic crops, (2) and that there will be greater returns in spite of the exceptional prices offered. Non-organic crops may sell much cheaper. But organically produced crops (those that have been fertilized with natural-based products) will always have something more to offer to consumers in terms of quality, value and health.
Organic farmers get full support from the Swiss government
The organic farmers from Canton of Graubünden are into sustainable agriculture, which actually helps them to acquire more money from. Keeping up with a sustainable agriculture is also something that the Swiss government gives full support to, given that the minimum ecological standards are also met and followed by the farmers. Moreover, the Swiss government will only pay farmers who abide by the rules. These rules essentially involve a few important points: organic farmers are (1) obliged to keep the soils from reaching the point of erosion, (2) obliged to oversee a balance in 7% of their farming grounds (looking after a balance in nutritional content and diversity in live organisms), (3) and obliged to do crop rotations for at least four crops.
Soil organisms that thrive in fertile soil
Organic farms have long benefited from fertile soils that have been improved by the live organisms that are within its system. But what makes the soil fertile in its own way? The presence and work of varied types of live organisms such as compost worms, good bacteria, fungi, and other small insects, are what’s keeping the soil rich and healthy.
An Effective Organic Farming
If it worked in Switzerland, then organic farming will also be able to work for all the other parts of the world. Farming the natural way, and swaying off from all the chemical applications, will certainly provide long-term benefits for both humans and nature. Farming in nature’s way increases the fertility of the soil, controls potential diseases and pest attacks, and produces nutrient rich and high-grade food, without putting any more damage to the earth (amongst other values).
via: Swissworld.org
Tags: organic farming
Posted in Worm Composting | No Comments »
Wednesday, January 11th, 2012
What is a Learning Garden?
A learning garden isn’t just an educational venue where kids, young adults, or grown-ups can discover, experiment, nurture, or even observe. A dynamic setting such as this can also be an educational tool that other individuals can learn several new things from (this can be a butterfly garden, a healing garden, a recipe garden, a historical garden, a canning garden, or an organic garden). Now, the concept behind the creation of a learning garden started in Europe, which was eventually adapted in the US in the 1890’s. Gardens that were actually built to teach intended to educate others on healthy eating, and learning more about sustainable options.
Schmitt Elementary School has a learning garden!
Schmitt Elementary School has their very own learning garden. The students, teachers, parents, and even several leaders of the community help contribute in developing the green plot. But other than that, the school created such a garden to help teach the students the value of producing organic food, eating healthily, and learning to be more friendly to environment, while keeping the program unified to the teachers’ activities and lesson plans. Putting that into perspective, the school has since transformed a dull space in Schmitt into an area that produces organic goods. The garden, which is just next to the playground, also exudes a vibrant and welcoming feeling to its occupants. Moreover, one of the many advantages to having such a garden is that a majority of the kids in school even get free lunches that used ingredients that came straight from it.
Hands on lessons from learning gardens
Students who take part in hands-on lessons are more likely to remember what their teachers have taught them recently. This gives them the opportunity to retain the processes of what has been directly shown to them. This also helps boost their self-esteem. Now organic gardening is in fact a physical activity. So getting into it will also demonstrate a positive outlook on their well-being (can experience an improvement in mental, emotional, and social growth). But other than that, this also helps them to be more aware of the kinds of fruits and vegetables that they should eat regularly (an increase in nutrition awareness is experienced). This also advocates healthy living and eating for the students, which is something that adults can learn a lot from as well.
The benefits to building a learning garden
Teaching institutions are able to get the most out of growing learning gardens since this helps them to tackle a variety of learning styles, which also goes with other interdisciplinary teachings. Such gardens can encourage children and adults alike, to know how to treat and spruce up Mother Nature, while appreciating the nutrition that it provides. Other than that, a learning garden can also encourage students (regardless of age and grade) to explore the ecosphere. This gives them the chance to play, to learn, and to become aware of what goes in their environment. This also encourages kids and young adults to get more involved in participating in community developments, while improving their gardening skills.
A learning garden isn’t just an educational venue where kids, young adults, or grown-ups can discover, experiment, nurture, or even observe. A dynamic setting such as this can also be an educational tool that other individuals can learn several new things from (this can be a butterfly garden, a healing garden, a recipe garden, a historical garden, a canning garden, or an organic garden). Now, the concept behind the creation of a learning garden started in Europe, which was eventually adapted in the US in the 1890’s. Gardens that were actually built to teach intended to educate others on healthy eating, and learning more about sustainable options.
Schmitt Elementary School has a learning garden!
Schmitt Elementary School has their very own learning garden. The students, teachers, parents, and even several leaders of the community help contribute in developing the green plot. But other than that, the school created such a garden to help teach the students the value of producing organic food, eating healthily, and learning to be more friendly to environment, while keeping the program unified to the teachers’ activities and lesson plans. Putting that into perspective, the school has since transformed a dull space in Schmitt into an area that produces organic goods. The garden, which is just next to the playground, also exudes a vibrant and welcoming feeling to its occupants. Moreover, one of the many advantages to having such a garden is that a majority of the kids in school even get free lunches that used ingredients that came straight from it.
Hands on lessons from learning gardens
Students who take part in hands-on lessons are more likely to remember what their teachers have taught them recently. This gives them the opportunity to retain the processes of what has been directly shown to them. This also helps boost their self-esteem. Now organic gardening is in fact a physical activity. So getting into it will also demonstrate a positive outlook on their well-being (can experience an improvement in mental, emotional, and social growth). But other than that, this also helps them to be more aware of the kinds of fruits and vegetables that they should eat regularly (an increase in nutrition awareness is experienced). This also advocates healthy living and eating for the students, which is something that adults can learn a lot from as well.
The benefits to building a learning garden
Teaching institutions are able to get the most out of growing learning gardens since this helps them to tackle a variety of learning styles, which also goes with other interdisciplinary teachings. Such gardens can encourage children and adults alike, to know how to treat and spruce up Mother Nature, while appreciating the nutrition that it provides. Other than that, a learning garden can also encourage students (regardless of age and grade) to explore the ecosphere. This gives them the chance to play, to learn, and to become aware of what goes in their environment. This also encourages kids and young adults to get more involved in participating in community developments, while improving their gardening skills.
Tags: organic gardening
Posted in Worm Composting | No Comments »
Friday, January 6th, 2012
Composting – A Zero Waste Resolution
A zero waste resolution is possible, especially if you carry out a composting plan. Composting has been long used, and has been a remarkable environmental advancement. It is a natural process that not only helps convert organic refuse into a reusable resource. It’s a process that also encourages less consumption and collection of garbage. How’s that for an ecological and sustainable breakthrough!
The city of Austin initiates a promising waste plan
Austin city has a goal, and that is to recycle 95% of its garbage by the year 2040. But how can they push through with this kind of strategy? Well, the town will be putting into operation a waste plan that is completely retuned. They will be using only the latest approaches in garbage cutback, recycling, and composting. Moreover, this will also help find out which techniques will both help on producing fewer garbage and cutting on costs.
Understanding Austin’s master plan
According to Austin Resource Recovery’s master plan, Austin city is hoping to execute their plan of removing all wastes from landfills; and aspiring to return all of these ‘refuse’ into something that can be reused again. Bob Gedert, Director of Austin Resource Recovery, even believes that the build-up of wastes in landfills today should be given a ‘second life’, as these are materials that may still have some significance later on. But other than this view, Resource Recovery’s plan is also pushing through reaching targets in the form of a ‘set waste diversion’. They intend to get this scheme going every five years, which already started in 2010 (already started a 35% diversion). This will be further endorsed by using recycling facilities more often. Supplementary compost collector units will also be provided, and will be made available to Austin’s citizens by the year 2015.
Making a commitment is everything!
Austin city is a good example of a unified municipality. If they can execute plans that their town will strongly benefit from, so can we. And all it takes is a little commitment from each and everyone. A project as big as Austin’s is in it for the long run. But knowing how to recycle and to compost also has an underlying factor. Waste reduction should be taught properly. If your city wants its projects to work smoothly, it should also be able to provide the materials needed (learning materials should always be accessible and convenient for its citizens to acquire). Learning about which items are recyclable or compostable will greatly help in reducing landfill build-up and more.
Waste management can start anywhere and by anyone
With a concise effort from every individual, a zero waste plan can be done successfully. Several business establishments such as restaurants, and other institutions such as school and parks are already helping manage their own collection of garbage. Composting is even practiced in several teaching facilities today, as students and teachers have been making it a part of their daily routine to recycle and compost whatever they could. Believe it or not, cafeteria leftovers and used papers are being fed to compost worms (the process of vermicomposting), to help produce a nutrient rich fertilizer and soilamendment.
Composting – A Zero Waste Resolution
A zero waste resolution is possible, especially if you carry out a composting plan. Composting has been long used, and has been a remarkable environmental advancement. It is a natural process that not only helps convert organic refuse into a reusable resource. It’s a process that also encourages less consumption and collection of garbage. How’s that for an ecological and sustainable breakthrough!
The city of Austin initiates a promising waste plan
Austin city has a goal, and that is to recycle 95% of its garbage by the year 2040. But how can they push through with this kind of strategy? Well, the town will be putting into operation a waste plan that is completely retuned. They will be using only the latest approaches in garbage cutback, recycling, and composting. Moreover, this will also help find out which techniques will both help on producing fewer garbage and cutting on costs.
Understanding Austin’s master plan
According to Austin Resource Recovery’s master plan, Austin city is hoping to execute their plan of removing all wastes from landfills; and aspiring to return all of these ‘refuse’ into something that can be reused again. Bob Gedert, Director of Austin Resource Recovery, even believes that the build-up of wastes in landfills today should be given a ‘second life’, as these are materials that may still have some significance later on. But other than this view, Resource Recovery’s plan is also pushing through reaching targets in the form of a ‘set waste diversion’. They intend to get this scheme going every five years, which already started in 2010 (already started a 35% diversion). This will be further endorsed by using recycling facilities more often. Supplementary compost collector units will also be provided, and will be made available to Austin’s citizens by the year 2015.
Making a commitment is everything!
Austin city is a good example of a unified municipality. If they can execute plans that their town will strongly benefit from, so can we. And all it takes is a little commitment from each and everyone. A project as big as Austin’s is in it for the long run. But knowing how to recycle and to compost also has an underlying factor. Waste reduction should be taught properly. If your city wants its projects to work smoothly, it should also be able to provide the materials needed (learning materials should always be accessible and convenient for its citizens to acquire). Learning about which items are recyclable or compostable will greatly help in reducing landfill build-up and more.
Waste management can start anywhere and by anyone
With a concise effort from every individual, a zero waste plan can be done successfully. Several business establishments such as restaurants, and other institutions such as school and parks are already helping manage their own collection of garbage. Composting is even practiced in several teaching facilities today, as students and teachers have been making it a part of their daily routine to recycle and compost whatever they could. Believe it or not, cafeteria leftovers and used papers are being fed to compost worms (the process of vermicomposting), to help produce a nutrient rich fertilizer and soil amendment.
via: Harvestpower.com
Tags: recycling
Posted in Worm Composting | No Comments »
Wednesday, January 4th, 2012
The idea of getting into worm Composting before was somewhat unpleasant. And it gave an impression that most people wouldn’t want to visualize for long. But after several attempts at it, it soon became a very popular venture. From simple individuals to expert gardeners, vermicomposting has then evolved. If you can believe it, the use of worms for composting is now being used in Charlotte/Douglas International Airport today. You can find out more from this page on how this particular airport uses compost worms in converting their daily organic garbage into a nutritious resource.
An airports junk can be a compost worm’s treasure!
Who would’ve thought that an airport such as Charlotte/Douglas International Airport would get into worm composting? Then again, it’s one of the best ways to eliminate daily accumulations of trash without having to pollute the ecosystem further. Individuals, and even bigger establishments have already gone into the act of composting. So it’s just about time for a much bigger entity like an airport to get into it as well. It is in fact, a remarkable way of helping reduce organic trash from landfill build-ups. With composting, there will be no more burning of trash (less air pollution), less trash on landfills (unnecessary leaks on both grounds and water bodies will be avoided); and there will be more supply of natural fertilizer that can be used for gardens and farms.
Worm Composting – The way Charlotte/Douglas International Airport does it!
The Charlotte/Douglas International Airport generates plenty of garbage in a day, a lot of which comes directly from daily travelers. And with this in mind, the said airport has decided to install a worm-based composting system, which also comes in conjunction with the new $1.1 million recycling center. With the assistance of hundreds of pounds of red worms, the costs on garbage collections and disposals will be trimmed down. These compost worms will also be able to eat off of two tons of waste on a day-to-day basis, which will then help keep up with the ‘eventual airport expansion’. So not only will these worms help the airport to be more ecological, these tiny creatures will also be able to help the airport to save about $1 million in waste disposal expenses (in a 5-year projection).
What the airport can do with the worm by-product
Compost worms (with the assistance of live microbes), after they’ve gorged on plenty of organic refuse, will gradually excrete a nutrient packed by-product. The consumption and the conversion of these natural wastes will eventually turn up into finished compost (also known as worm castings, worm poop or humus). And with this remarkable conversion, the airport has designed a plan to use this rich by-product as an organic fertilizer for their 6,000 acres of land. They are also looking into packing and selling the compost remains to others who may have the need for it.
The airport’s scheme for composting their garbage
The airport plans to have their garbage fed into their pre-composter first (1,600 sq. ft.), to have the scraps rundown into smaller parts. And as soon as these are broken down and filtered of odors (airport remains such as toilet papers, leftover food, etc.), these will then be stocked into the worm composting system.
The idea of getting into worm Composting before was somewhat unpleasant. And it gave an impression that most people wouldn’t want to visualize for long. But after several attempts at it, it soon became a very popular venture. From simple individuals to expert gardeners, vermicomposting has then evolved. If you can believe it, the use of worms for composting is now being used in Charlotte/Douglas International Airport today. You can find out more from this page on how this particular airport uses compost worms in converting their daily organic garbage into a nutritious resource.
An airports junk can be a compost worm’s treasure!
Who would’ve thought that an airport such as Charlotte/Douglas International Airport would get into worm composting? Then again, it’s one of the best ways to eliminate daily accumulations of trash without having to pollute the ecosystem further. Individuals, and even bigger establishments have already gone into the act of composting. So it’s just about time for a much bigger entity like an airport to get into it as well. It is in fact, a remarkable way of helping reduce organic trash from landfill build-ups. With composting, there will be no more burning of trash (less air pollution), less trash on landfills (unnecessary leaks on both grounds and water bodies will be avoided); and there will be more supply of natural fertilizer that can be used for gardens and farms.
Worm Composting – The way Charlotte/Douglas International Airport does it!
The Charlotte/Douglas International Airport generates plenty of garbage in a day, a lot of which comes directly from daily travelers. And with this in mind, the said airport has decided to install a worm-based composting system, which also comes in conjunction with the new $1.1 million recycling center. With the assistance of hundreds of pounds of red worms, the costs on garbage collections and disposals will be trimmed down. These compost worms will also be able to eat off of two tons of waste on a day-to-day basis, which will then help keep up with the ‘eventual airport expansion’. So not only will these worms help the airport to be more ecological, these tiny creatures will also be able to help the airport to save about $1 million in waste disposal expenses (in a 5-year projection).
What the airport can do with the worm by-product
Compost worms (with the assistance of live microbes), after they’ve gorged on plenty of organic refuse, will gradually excrete a nutrient packed by-product. The consumption and the conversion of these natural wastes will eventually turn up into finished compost (also known as worm castings, worm poop or humus). And with this remarkable conversion, the airport has designed a plan to use this rich by-product as an organic fertilizer for their 6,000 acres of land. They are also looking into packing and selling the compost remains to others who may have the need for it.
The airport’s scheme for composting their garbage
The airport plans to have their garbage fed into their pre-composter first (1,600 sq. ft.), to have the scraps rundown into smaller parts. And as soon as these are broken down and filtered of odors (airport remains such as toilet papers, leftover food, etc.), these will then be stocked into the worm composting system.
via: Triplepundit.com
Tags: Worm Composting
Posted in Worm Composting | No Comments »
Monday, January 2nd, 2012
Most residential buildings have bare-looking rooftops that can be turned into a luscious garden. Now that most people are geared into creating eco-friendly spaces, developing a garden all the way up the roof is another option for city dwellers. Rooftop gardening is definitely the answer to turning boring rooftops into a beautiful plot.
Rooftop Gardening Facts
Rooftop gardening is not something that you can do whenever you want to. Unless you have your own roof to use, you’ll be required to submit and acquire certain requirements and approvals from specific authorities before proceeding to your garden project. Take for example the owner/s of the building, apartment, or condominium that you’re residing in. An approval to a garden set-up will certainly have to be requested from them. Other than that, there are also regulations that are stipulated by the city you’re living in, so make sure to abide by those as well.
Investing on Rooftop Gardens
Rooftop gardens are good investments. Not only will you gain access to a plot that grows fresh and healthy produce, you’ll also be helping the environment in return. How? Well, gardens such as those on the roof can help in improving the quality of the air (as plants release oxygen). We all know how certain cities can get so polluted from all the smog and smoke. But aside from that, gardens that are developed on the roof also provide a means of insulation for buildings. Such green roofs for healthy cities can also aid in delaying water run-offs after a heavy downpour.
Rooftop Garden Essentials
A sustainable roof garden design should have the following materials: a filter sheet, a waterproof layer, a roof membrane, a moisture blanket, some loose soil, plants, or seeds.
Whether you’re into developing flowers, fruits, herbs, or rooftop vegetable gardens, make sure that your green patch has a filter sheet. The layer itself will let the excess water to drain from the roof. The waterproof layer on the other hand will function as the roof’s protective cover. This is usually placed on top of the roof so that leaks will be avoided from ruining the rooftop.
A roof membrane should also be present in the construction of your roof garden, as this pond lining will be placed on top of the waterproof coating. The moisture blanket on the other hand is another layer (can be literally from old blankets or used cardboard). It works as a ‘growth medium’, making sure that the soil retains enough moisture into its system (to keep plant-life thriving). Now, soil is also essential when it comes to any form of gardening, as well as your choice of plants and seeds. These raw materials will become your last layer.
Plant your preferred plants
Rooftop Gardening also requires that you grow plants according to the weather conditions and restrictions in your location. Take for example an area that gets ample amounts of sunshine everyday. You can try planting shrubs on this type of setting.
Most residential buildings have bare-looking rooftops that can be turned into a luscious garden. Now that most people are geared into creating eco-friendly spaces, developing a garden all the way up the roof is another option for city dwellers. Rooftop gardening is definitely the answer to turning boring rooftops into a beautiful plot.
Rooftop Gardening Facts
Rooftop gardening is not something that you can do whenever you want to. Unless you have your own roof to use, you’ll be required to submit and acquire certain requirements and approvals from specific authorities before proceeding to your garden project. Take for example the owner/s of the building, apartment, or condominium that you’re residing in. An approval to a garden set-up will certainly have to be requested from them. Other than that, there are also regulations that are stipulated by the city you’re living in, so make sure to abide by those as well.
Investing on Rooftop Gardens
Rooftop gardens are good investments. Not only will you gain access to a plot that grows fresh and healthy produce, you’ll also be helping the environment in return. How? Well, gardens such as those on the roof can help in improving the quality of the air (as plants release oxygen). We all know how certain cities can get so polluted from all the smog and smoke. But aside from that, gardens that are developed on the roof also provide a means of insulation for buildings. Such green roofs for healthy cities can also aid in delaying water run-offs after a heavy downpour.
Rooftop Garden Essentials
A sustainable roof garden design should have the following materials: a filter sheet, a waterproof layer, a roof membrane, a moisture blanket, some loose soil, plants, or seeds.
Whether you’re into developing flowers, fruits, herbs, or rooftop vegetable gardens, make sure that your green patch has a filter sheet. The layer itself will let the excess water to drain from the roof. The waterproof layer on the other hand will function as the roof’s protective cover. This is usually placed on top of the roof so that leaks will be avoided from ruining the rooftop.
A roof membrane should also be present in the construction of your roof garden, as this pond lining will be placed on top of the waterproof coating. The moisture blanket on the other hand is another layer (can be literally from old blankets or used cardboard). It works as a ‘growth medium’, making sure that the soil retains enough moisture into its system (to keep plant-life thriving). Now, soil is also essential when it comes to any form of gardening, as well as your choice of plants and seeds. These raw materials will become your last layer.
Plant your preferred plants
Rooftop Gardening also requires that you grow plants according to the weather conditions and restrictions in your location. Take for example an area that gets ample amounts of sunshine everyday. You can try planting shrubs on this type of setting.
Tags: organic gardening
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Saturday, December 31st, 2011
Working together as a community helps to accomplish a variety of undertakings. Just like what happens with a Community composting program. Community composting creates not only an environmental awareness. It also fosters a bond between groups of people who continuously pushes for the betterment of their neighborhood.
What to expect from community composting
Typically, most communities will be provided by their respective cities with sturdy containers that will be used for storing compost materials. The compost bin is where a selection of kitchen and yard wastes will be deposited and contained. It basically turns into a storage unit, which helps create an organic resource thereafter. Now, as soon as the process is done (when the finished compost is ready for harvesting), the bin will then be emptied and delivered to a community compost facility.
8,000 Calgary residences try out community composting
Calgary city recently started a pilot project that helped introduce the ways to creating organic compost. Almost 8,000 residences (all residing within Abbeydale, Brentwood, Cougar Ridge, and Southwood) have been given their own free composters in the form of kitchen pails with liners. Compostable yard bags, carts, and other written information were also made available to homeowners who may have questions about the compost production process, pick-up schedules, etc. The city director of waste and recycling, Dave Griffiths is routing for some good feedback on the project, in hopes that the program will also be a positive one.
More on the Calgary Community Composting program
The city has invested a lot of money. $1.3 million has been allotted to be exact. This already includes the pick-up and collection of compost from communities to the compost facilities (by means of city trucks), the purchase of composters, contracts and campaigns, and so on. Now the residents have not been charged with anything. All they are asked for is to participate in the project, and to help make things happen. Green waste is not a problem. Such projects can encourage groups of people to collect green wastes; and to see such a program as a chance to reap out valuable resources out of it.
Composting green waste at home
The organic refuse that is accumulated daily (typical household trimmings and food scraps) can be composted. Now biodegradable refuse can be made not only into compost, but as mulch as well. But other than that, organic compost can also be used as a plant fertilizer and as a soil amendment (has a good mixture of essential nutrients such as nitrogen and carbon). Composting can actually help create an organic product that will help plants to develop and to increase in yield. It can also aid in improving a worn out soil to spring back to a healthier condition. Soils that have been badly damaged but have been nourished with compost will be able to show improvements in its ability to retain more moisture and nutrients into its system. A healthy soil will also be able to protect plant roots from being rigged by potential diseases.
Tags: composting
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Tuesday, December 6th, 2011
Did you know that there are a variety of uses for the used grounds from your previous coffee brew? These coffee grinds can help deodorize your refrigerator, can be rubbed off of pet cats or dogs after a bath (this helps soften the fur and inhibits the infestation of fleas), can help freshen the breath when sucked, and can be used in your backyard as a garden supplement. Believe it or not, used coffee grounds come in handy for a future use in the backyard.
What can coffee grounds do for your garden?
The application of coffee grounds in the garden can help protect plants from a range of pests. Other than being high in nitrogen, this organic product can also eliminate pests that exist on the soils such as slugs, snails, and ants, especially when these grinds are sprinkled to the ground.
Coffee Shop owner uses coffee grounds as an organic fertilizer for his garden
Take for example Shane Genzuik’s garden in East Bentleigh, where his garden bed has been consistently supplemented with coffee grinds. His garden has been flourishing after just a year of using coffee grounds as a fertilizer. Now, how does he collect a constant supply for his plot? Other than owning a café shop of his own, he has volunteers that continuously help with his ‘Ground to Ground Campaign’ by gathering and recycling vast quantities of coffee grinds taken from other café’s and offices. He states that, “It’s a great fertilizer.”
Composting and Mulching: The magic in the coffee beans
The compost and the mulch that some gardeners create for garden use can also include the application of coffee grounds for plants and garden soil. Used coffee grinds that have been tossed inside a composting bin for example (along with all the other organic compost materials), can help neutralize pH levels. Other than that, a worm composting bin filled with red wiggler worms can also be fed with a few pieces of these organics. Worms love coffee grinds. But of course, you will have to provide these in moderation as too much can be lethal. Now, according to an article writer named Lauren Reed-Guy, ‘coffee grounds do wonders as mulch and as a part of the compost’.
Where to get free coffee grounds
If you were a gardener that rarely drank coffee, you would probably have to think twice about using coffee grinds for your plot. You might even ask yourself on how you’ll be able to afford such a commodity when you don’t even use it for your own consumption? There is a solution for this though. If you’re thinking about using coffee grounds as an organic fertilizer for your backyard, then head out to the nearest Starbucks store. Starbucks helps contribute to an environmental cause by offering free used coffee grinds for any gardening efforts. Some are even packed already, and are just ready for anyone’s picking (these coffee grinds are typically packed inside silver bags that are placed inside a basket).
Did you know that there are a variety of uses for the used grounds from your previous coffee brew? These coffee grinds can help deodorize your refrigerator, can be rubbed off of pet cats or dogs after a bath (this helps soften the fur and inhibits the infestation of fleas), can help freshen the breath when sucked, and can be used in your backyard as a garden supplement. Believe it or not, used coffee grounds come in handy for a future use in the backyard.
What can coffee grounds do for your garden?
The application of coffee grounds in the garden can help protect plants from a range of pests. Other than being high in nitrogen, this organic product can also eliminate pests that exist on the soils such as slugs, snails, and ants, especially when these grinds are sprinkled to the ground.
Coffee Shop owner uses coffee grounds as an organic fertilizer for his garden
Take for example Shane Genzuik’s garden in East Bentleigh, where his garden bed has been consistently supplemented with coffee grinds. His garden has been flourishing after just a year of using coffee grounds as a fertilizer. Now, how does he collect a constant supply for his plot? Other than owning a café shop of his own, he has volunteers that continuously help with his ‘Ground to Ground Campaign’ by gathering and recycling vast quantities of coffee grinds taken from other café’s and offices. He states that, “It’s a great fertilizer.”
Composting and Mulching: The magic in the coffee beans
The compost and the mulch that some gardeners create for garden use can also include the application of coffee grounds for plants and garden soil. Used coffee grinds that have been tossed inside a composting bin for example (along with all the other organic compost materials), can help neutralize pH levels. Other than that, a worm composting bin filled with red wiggler worms can also be fed with a few pieces of these organics. Worms love coffee grinds. But of course, you will have to provide these in moderation as too much can be lethal. Now, according to an article writer named Lauren Reed-Guy, ‘coffee grounds do wonders as mulch and as a part of the compost’.
Where to get free coffee grounds
If you were a gardener that rarely drank coffee, you would probably have to think twice about using coffee grinds for your plot. You might even ask yourself on how you’ll be able to afford such a commodity when you don’t even use it for your own consumption? There is a solution for this though. If you’re thinking about using coffee grounds as an organic fertilizer for your backyard, then head out to the nearest Starbucks store. Starbucks helps contribute to an environmental cause by offering free used coffee grinds for any gardening efforts. Some are even packed already, and are just ready for anyone’s picking (these coffee grinds are typically packed inside silver bags that are placed inside a basket).
Tags: backyard gardening
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Wednesday, November 9th, 2011
There are a lot of things that you might not know about when it comes to vermicomposting worms, particularly about red wiggler worms. Now, these slimy creatures aren’t just your typical compost critters. You’ll be surprised at how much strange yet fascinating things these worms can live by on, on a daily basis.
Composting worms can still function without them having the usual body parts
Compost worms are born without bearing any of the usual body parts, so it’s not just the red wiggler kind. Worms have no eyes, ears, lungs, nor any teeth for chewing. So you might be wondering as to how they function without these vital parts. Well, worms are able to adapt to their surroundings. They may not have the pair of eyes nor ears for sensing the things around them. But they do rely on the vibrations and bright lights that come their way. As for the lungs, their skin has been its substitute. Worms breathe through their moist skin. So keeping them under extreme conditions (surroundings that are too wet or too dry) may actually lead them to experience health complications. Aside from all of these, worms aren’t also born with any teeth. But you’ll know how they go about their food intake on the next topic.
Worms don’t usually fed on food scraps
It all makes sense since composting worms don’t have any teeth in them. But of course, how do they feed themselves, right? Well, here’s where the good bacteria and fungi comes into the picture. The microbes and the fungi that are present in the worm composting system are the ones that are working into breaking down the organic scraps.
In a usual worm bin setup, composting worms are essentially provided with an organic bedding and organic food source. But the ones that feed off of these are actually the microorganisms contained inside the worm bin. That’s why it’s also important that the worms keep the bin contents aerated, so that these microbes get a steady oxygen fix. So, the next time you buy worms, make sure to remember this interesting fact.
Worms are invertebrates
Just imagine a red wiggler worm that has no bones in its body. But you can see how able-bodied these soil creatures can still be, especially when it comes to wiggling and crawling their way on the surface. But even if they have no bones, their body still requires some calcium flowing into their system. You can provide red wigglers with calcium rich organics, like eggshells for example (should be the crushed type).
Red wiggler worms aren’t called surface dwellers for nothing
Don’t expect your worms to burrow no more than 18 inches deeper. They’re simply not accustomed to that depth since they’re born as surface dwellers. Only earthworms such as garden worms can burrow at much lower ranges. Now, red wiggler worms are Epigeic. They are the kind of worms that only thrive when placed on soil surfaces. So note of this fact when you do decide to manage your own worm farm of red wiggler worms.
Pests inside the worm composter are more of a human disturbance than to red wigglers
Vermicomposting worms can be made into fish baits or as live food for birds, moles, raccoons, lizards, and other animals. But when they’re securely contained inside the bin, nothing can harm them (except for extreme and unhealthy conditions of course). Even if mites, black soldier flies or ants are found inside the worm composter, you can be assured that these won’t harm nor feed on your compost worms. They will be more of a disturbance to humans, since these can contribute to spoiling the contents of the bin, or even overpowering the worm population.
There are a lot of things that you might not know about when it comes to vermicomposting worms, particularly about red wiggler worms. Now, these slimy creatures aren’t just your typical compost critters. You’ll be surprised at how much strange yet fascinating things these worms can live by on, on a daily basis.
Composting worms can still function without them having the usual body parts
Compost worms are born without bearing any of the usual body parts, so it’s not just the red wiggler kind. Worms have no eyes, ears, lungs, nor any teeth for chewing. So you might be wondering as to how they function without these vital parts. Well, worms are able to adapt to their surroundings. They may not have the pair of eyes nor ears for sensing the things around them. But they do rely on the vibrations and bright lights that come their way. As for the lungs, their skin has been its substitute. Worms breathe through their moist skin. So keeping them under extreme conditions (surroundings that are too wet or too dry) may actually lead them to experience health complications. Aside from all of these, worms aren’t also born with any teeth. But you’ll know how they go about their food intake on the next topic.
Worms don’t usually fed on food scraps
It all makes sense since composting worms don’t have any teeth in them. But of course, how do they feed themselves, right? Well, here’s where the good bacteria and fungi comes into the picture. The microbes and the fungi that are present in the worm composting system are the ones that are working into breaking down the organic scraps.
In a usual worm bin setup, composting worms are essentially provided with an organic bedding and organic food source. But the ones that feed off of these are actually the microorganisms contained inside the worm bin. That’s why it’s also important that the worms keep the bin contents aerated, so that these microbes get a steady oxygen fix. So, the next time you buy worms, make sure to remember this interesting fact.
Worms are invertebrates
Just imagine a red wiggler worm that has no bones in its body. But you can see how able-bodied these soil creatures can still be, especially when it comes to wiggling and crawling their way on the surface. But even if they have no bones, their body still requires some calcium flowing into their system. You can provide red wigglers with calcium rich organics, like eggshells for example (should be the crushed type).
Red wiggler worms aren’t called surface dwellers for nothing
Don’t expect your worms to burrow no more than 18 inches deeper. They’re simply not accustomed to that depth since they’re born as surface dwellers. Only earthworms such as garden worms can burrow at much lower ranges. Now, red wiggler worms are Epigeic. They are the kind of worms that only thrive when placed on soil surfaces. So note of this fact when you do decide to manage your own worm farm of red wiggler worms.
Pests inside the worm composter are more of a human disturbance than to red wigglers
Vermicomposting worms can be made into fish baits or as live food for birds, moles, raccoons, lizards, and other animals. But when they’re securely contained inside the bin, nothing can harm them (except for extreme and unhealthy conditions of course). Even if mites, black soldier flies or ants are found inside the worm composter, you can be assured that these won’t harm nor feed on your compost worms. They will be more of a disturbance to humans, since these can contribute to spoiling the contents of the bin, or even overpowering the worm population.
Tags: red wiggler worms, red worms, vermicomposting
Posted in Worm Composting | No Comments »
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