Every year, thousands of pounds of organic waste wind up in local landfills. Not only does this take up valuable space, but it also wastes valuable resources. Although many communities maintain recycling programs for glass, metal, and paper, there are some great reasons why municipalities should compost too.

Using SCARAB large-scale compost turners, cities can maintain robust composting facilities that turn yard waste, vegetable peelings, and more into nutrient-rich fertilizer for reuse in parks, community gardens, and backyard vegetable patches. But that’s not the only reason to invest in a compost program with state-of-the-art equipment: here are some others to keep in mind!

Reduces methane emissions

Methane is a hydrocarbon gas abundant in nature, particularly around deteriorating plants and other organic materials. Despite this, it is detrimental to the climate. As a greenhouse gas, methane is one of the main contributors to climate change, and landfills are a primary source of this gas. When fruit, vegetables, food scraps, and other organic matter decompose under huge piles of trash in a landfill, they produce large amounts of methane.

By separating those items and sending them to composting facilities that will transform them into useful products, landfills can slash methane production. Ultimately, a municipal composting program is just one more way to help the environment.

Decreases the number of landfills and incinerators

Eliminating organic materials from the local dump with a municipal composting program can eventually reduce the number of trash facilities a city needs. Reducing waste means it will take longer for solid waste centers to reach capacity, and there will be less need for incinerators to burn garbage and create air pollution.

Less reliance on chemical fertilizers

One of the major reasons why municipalities should compost is that using a safe soil amendment eliminates the need to use harmful chemical fertilizers. Over time, using synthetic products reduces naturally occurring nutrients and limits the ground’s ability to support healthy plants. Runoff from chemical fertilizers also pollutes the water supply, which can harm humans and wildlife.

Compost contains phosphorus, nitrogen, and potassium, as well as other vital trace minerals that chemical fertilizers don’t have. It supports beneficial bacteria that enrich the soil while protecting animal and plant life, too. The extra-dense texture means most gardens and flower beds don’t need any additional chemical fertilizers.

Reduced food supply risks

Growing food requires a layer of rich topsoil, the uppermost layer of soil that supports plant roots. Unfortunately, the topsoil in the U.S. is deteriorating at an alarming rate. Without healthy dirt, farmers can’t grow enough food to meet demand, which will eventually have devastating consequences.

Applying decomposed matter to garden soil increases its nutrient levels and soil density so it can better absorb moisture and resist erosion. A city-wide composting program ensures a steady supply of natural, safe fertilizer for local farmers.

SCARAB is the Industry Leader for Municipal Compost Turners

SCARAB compost turners can handle long rows of compost, ensuring that a community can handle thousands of pounds of waste every year instead of sending it to the landfill. A comprehensive program is a commitment to a better future for your town and for the whole planet.

If you have more questions about why municipalities should compost or need help choosing a commercial compost turner, reach out to SCARAB today by dialing (806) 883-7261 or sending us an email. Our specialized equipment can help you turn waste from homes, businesses, schools, and more into compost that beautifies public areas, provides a steady revenue stream, and helps the planet.