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Small Space, Big Impact: Urban Composting

Figure 1: Worm bin at the Foley household

The Importance of Composting

Following our 2024 “Pollution Prevention” theme for the MS4 program, composting is one of the easiest ways for the average person to keep food scraps and other organic matter out of the landfill. Nearly 1/3 of all food produced is wasted (~1.3 billion tons each year) and around $165 billion a year is spent managing that waste (data from TED Ed, link below). Composting is a sustainable practice that can coincide with organic gardening.

“Urban Composting” is a practice that can be performed in a city setting with limited space. In this article, I’ll discuss two unique and viable options to get you started: vermicomposting and using compost tumblers.


Vermicomposting

Vermicomposting uses earthworms to decompose organic matter (see Figure 1). The byproduct of vermicomposting is vermicast, a substance rich in humus, nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, micronutrients, and beneficial soil microbes. Vermicast can help neutralize soil pH and improve plant health and nutrient uptake. Some folks refer to it as “Black Gold”. Worms can be somewhat sensitive and picky, so avoid putting spicy foods or anything acidic in your vermicompost. You don’t want to upset the balance!


Figure 2: Compost tumbler at South Park Children’s Educational Garden

Compost Tumblers

Traditional composting can be easily performed in a tumbler or similar bin at home. Again, this option does not require a ton of space, and the closed bin keeps any unpleasant smell contained. The composter needs to be turned often—and that is most of the maintenance required. Adding composted organic matter to your soil is a fantastic way to supplement it. Your plants and the planet will thank you.