Composting

Learn the essentials of composting, from understanding decomposition to building systems, troubleshooting challenges, and using finished compost effectively, empowering you to reduce waste and enrich the environment sustainably.

Challenge Introduction

In this challenge, you'll discover how to turn everyday organic waste into valuable compost that nourishes the soil and supports sustainable living. You'll explore the basics of composting, understand the science behind decomposition, and learn how to create and maintain your own compost system.

By completing this challenge, you’ll gain practical skills to reduce waste, combat climate change, and contribute to healthier ecosystems. Composting is a simple yet powerful step toward a more sustainable future—your efforts can make a real difference.

Are you ready to take action and start transforming waste into something meaningful? Let’s begin!

Learning Goals

  • Understand the basics and benefits of composting
  • Identify and choose the best composting method for your needs
  • Troubleshoot common composting challenges and identify healthy compost
  • Learn the science of decomposition and material ratios
  • Build and maintain a compost system for optimal performance
  • Use finished compost effectively for gardening and environmental benefits.

Composting Basics

Composting is a natural process that turns organic waste into nutrient-rich material for the soil. In this section, you’ll learn what composting is, why it’s essential for the environment, and how it fits into a sustainable lifestyle. 

You'll also explore the fascinating science of decomposition, including how to balance materials to create an effective compost pile. 

This foundational knowledge will set you up for success as you start your composting journey. Let’s dive in and discover the basics of turning waste into a valuable resource!

Complete these tasks:

Setting Up Your Compost System

Now that you understand the basics of composting, it’s time to put that knowledge into action. In this section, you’ll learn how to choose the composting method that best suits your lifestyle and space, whether it’s backyard composting, vermicomposting, or even bokashi. 

You’ll also discover the tools, techniques, and materials needed to build and maintain a healthy compost pile, along with what you can and cannot compost. By the end of this section, you’ll be ready to set up your own system and start turning waste into rich, valuable compost!

Complete these tasks:

Using your Compost and Troubleshooting

You’ve learned how to start composting—now it’s time to master it. In this section, you’ll tackle common composting challenges, such as odors, pests, and slow decomposition, and discover how to maintain a balanced and efficient system. 

You’ll also explore how to identify when your compost is ready to use and learn practical ways to apply it in gardens, houseplants, or community projects. 

Complete these tasks:
Read
Solving Common issues

Read • 2 mins • Optional

Earn your rewards

Show what you have learned:

  • Understand the basics and benefits of composting
  • Learn the science of decomposition and material ratios
  • Identify and choose the best composting method for your needs
  • Build and maintain a compost system for optimal performance