The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency includes composting in its definitions of recycling. Just as a glass bottle is a valuable resource, so is a pile of yard clippings. Glass is scrap material waiting to be melted and reformed, while leaves, grass, food scraps, and paper towels are organic materials waiting to be converted into compost. Over six million, and the number is growing daily. In a landfill, organic matter reacts with other materials and creates toxic leachate that may contaminate nearby streams or groundwater.
Organic matter placed in airtight landfills stops the earth s natural cycle of decomposition.
This cycle plays a crucial role in the health of our environment. Compost improves soil structure, texture and aeration and increases its water-holding capacity. It loosens clay soils and helps sandy soils retain water. Adding compost to soils aids in erosion control, promotes soil fertility and stimulates healthy root development in plants. Plants grown in compost-rich soils are stronger and more resistant to disease and insects.