Sunrise Packaging Blog

Recycling at the Office Taken One Step Further….Composting

Offices all over the country have taken an effort to participate in recycling. Many offices use bins for aluminum, plastic, and paper, however some have taken it one step further and ventured into what is called composting. Composting is a biological process where organic materials are broken down and nutrients and minerals are released. This process combines air, water, carbon, and nitrogen that develop a synergy to make the whole process work.

The average employee of a company creates about half a pound of compostable waste each day. This amount is equivalent to the weight of a loaf of bread. Medium to large companies can save and profit from implementing a composting program to counter the level of waste being produced by their employees. There are two composting systems available for businesses to use that cuts out the smell that is usually associated with composting.

The first method is vermicomposting, also known as composting with worms. Although this sounds rather gross, it is actually the most beneficial for composting food waste and is an ecologically safe method to naturally convert many organic wastes. Vermicomposting is the process of having red worms and other decomposer organisms process organic waste and turn it into natural fertilizer. It is very easy and requires few supplies. The second method is to purchase a traditional composting bin or tumbler. The bins or tumblers can maintain relatively high temperatures and act like insulation. They continuously turn which keeps the microbes aerated and active. These bins are relatively inexpensive and easy to use. They also come in may different sizes and shapes that can be suitable for your office environment.

Composting at the office allows the business to take a step towards becoming a sustainable company. Composting is a very eco-friendly process because all organic matter eventually decomposes in nature. This is a win-win for companies who decide to implement such a program. They would be reducing their carbon footprint and helping the environment.