My Path to Green: Step 1 - How to Compost

nnHello everyone,nnSo I began my first step in "My Path to Green" this week by learning How to Compost. I used Norma Hartie's blog as a guide for what to do. Of course, composting is far easier if you have a backyard but for those who live in an apartment (like me!) I made my compost in a small bin that I will be keeping next to my trash. That way all my organic waste can go in there instead of my trash can. Here is what I learnt about composting:nnYou want to save all your organic waste, things such as: vegetable and fruit parts, coffee grounds, tea, eggshells, brown paper products, grass and plant clippings. But absolutely NO animal leftovers, dairy products, oils or waste.nnYou compost in layers 1 green to 2-3 brown. Greens are things like fruits and veggies, plant clippings and browns are things like egg shells, newspaper clippings, brown paper bags, coffee grounds and dried up leaves. After you are done layering -- add a layer of soil so the microorganisms in it will kick start the process.nnComposting generates heat as a by product. The temperature and rate of the decomp will vary on how you build your compost pile. The hotter the temperature, the faster the decomposition. The compost will also need mositure and air to be successful.nnSo there, I tried mine and I hope you will as well and share your success stories. Here is where I learnt how to compost and additional resources that might help you:n

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• How to Compost by Norma Hartien
• Food Waste and Composting by Norma Hartien
• Recycling & Composting 101 by Divine Carolinen

nJust joining me? See My Path to Green from the beginning.nnI am taking small steps in my life to to help our planet. If you are too, then share your stories with us. SunChips® brand and National Geographic believe in the power of the Green Effect. If each of us takes one small step to make our community greener, we can create big change for our planet. To get the movement started, they are awarding $20,000 grants to five people or groups with compelling ideas for green change. Submit your green idea between April 22 and June 8, 2009. For more information visit: www.greeneffect.comnn