Composting is an easy and efficient method to decrease waste and produce fertile soil for horticulture. Yet, despite its many benefits, composting is not as widely practiced as it should be.

In this article, we'll explore the reasons why composting isn't done more often and how we can encourage more people to adopt this sustainable practice.

The Benefits of Composting

Before we dive into the reasons why composting isn't more popular, let's first take a look at the many benefits of this practice.

Reduces Waste and Landfill Space

Composting is an organic method that decomposes materials like food leftovers and garden debris into a soil rich in nutrients. By composting, we divert these materials from landfills, where they would otherwise take up space and contribute to greenhouse gas emissions.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) states that approximately 30% of our waste consists of food leftovers and garden debris. By composting, we can significantly reduce the amount of waste that ends up in landfills.

Creates Nutrient-Rich Soil

Compost is often referred to as "black gold" for its ability to enrich soil and promote healthy plant growth. Compost is full of essential nutrients, such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, that plants need to thrive.

By adding compost to your garden, you can improve soil structure, increase water retention, and reduce the need for chemical fertilizers. This not only benefits your plants but also helps to support a healthy ecosystem.

Encourages Sustainable Gardening

Composting is a key component of sustainable gardening. By using compost instead of chemical fertilizers, you can reduce your carbon footprint and support a more natural and environmentally friendly approach to gardening.

Reasons Why Composting Isn't More Popular

Despite its many benefits, composting is not as widely practiced as it could be. Here are some of the reasons why.

Lack of Knowledge and Education

One of the main reasons why composting isn't more popular is simply because many people don't know how to do it or why it's important. Composting may seem intimidating or confusing to those who are unfamiliar with the process.

Additionally, many people are not aware of the environmental benefits of composting and how it can contribute to a more sustainable future. Without proper education and awareness, it's difficult to encourage more people to start composting.

Limited Space and Resources

Another barrier to composting is limited space and resources. Many people live in apartments or urban areas where outdoor space is limited. Typically, when people think of composting, they imaging an outdoor compost bin or pile. Apartments and small yards do not lend themselves well to outdoor composting.

Many consumers are unaware that electric composters can easily fit on countertops in any home and take up minimal space.

Time and Effort Required

Typical composting is not a quick process because it can take several months for organic materials to break down into usable compost. This time and effort may deter some people from composting, especially if they are looking for immediate results in their garden.

Many electric composters work much more quickly though. beyondGREEN's electric composters break down waste in as little as two weeks and require minimal effort. 

Fear of Smells and Pests

Some people may be hesitant to start composting due to concerns about unpleasant smells and attracting pests. While composting can produce odors, proper maintenance and a good balance of materials can help to minimize any unpleasant smells.

Additionally, using a closed compost bin can help prevent pests from getting into the compost pile. With proper maintenance and care, composting should not be a major source of smells or pests.

How to Encourage More Composting

Now that we've explored some of the reasons why composting isn't more popular, let's discuss how we can encourage more people to adopt this sustainable practice.

Education and Awareness

The first step in encouraging more composting is to educate and raise awareness about its benefits. This can be done through workshops, community events, and social media campaigns.

By educating people about the environmental benefits of composting and how to do it properly, we can break down the barriers of lack of knowledge and resources.

Make Composting More Accessible

To address the issue of limited space and resources, we need to make composting more accessible to everyone. This can be done by providing community composting sites, offering subsidies for compost bins, and providing resources and tools for those who may not have access to them.

In-home electric composters are also a great alternative for those with limited outdoor space.

Promote the Convenience of Composting

While composting may require some time and effort, it's important to highlight the convenience of this practice. By composting, you can reduce the amount of waste you produce, create nutrient-rich soil for your garden, and support a more sustainable lifestyle.

Address Concerns About Smells and Pests

To address concerns about smells and pests, it's important to educate people on proper composting techniques. This includes maintaining a good balance of materials, regularly turning the compost, and using a closed compost bin to prevent pests.

By addressing these concerns and providing solutions, we can help to alleviate any fears or hesitations about composting.

Real-World Examples of Successful Composting Programs

Many successful composting programs around the world have helped to increase composting rates and reduce waste. Here are a few examples:

San Francisco, California

San Francisco has one of the most successful composting programs in the world. In 2009, the city implemented an ordinance, requiring all residents and businesses to separate their food scraps and yard waste for composting.

As a result, San Francisco has diverted over 80% of its waste from landfills and has become a leader in sustainable waste management.

Kamikatsu, Japan

The small town of Kamikatsu in Japan has achieved zero waste by implementing a strict recycling and composting program. Residents are required to separate their waste into 45 different categories, including food scraps for composting.

The town has become a model for sustainable waste management and has inspired other communities to follow suit.

beyondGREEN Composting Made Easy

While cities and governments around the world can take measures to encourage more sustainability, you can take efforts in your own home to reduce your waste. 

If you are interested in composting we have some products that will make the process much easier. The best part about these products is you don't even need access to a yard for composting. With our kitchen and pet waste composters, you can compost right on your counter in the kitchen. That is because these composters prevent any odors from escaping the composter. 

We also have many other eco-friendly products that can help you live a more sustainable life and a lot of them can be put in our composters as well!