Composting in NYC: From Trash to Treasure (or at Least, Less Trash)
New York City, the concrete jungle where dreams are made (and apparently, a lot of garbage), is about to get a little greener. Mandatory composting is coming to town, folks! That’s right, those avocado pits and coffee grounds that have been mocking you from the trash can are about to have a new purpose in life.
The Great Compost Conundrum
Now, you might be thinking, “Great, another thing to do.” And you’re not wrong. But let’s look at the bright side: you’re basically becoming a tiny, urban farmer without the tractor. How cool is that? Plus, it’s good for the planet. So, you know, save the world and impress your friends at the same time. It’s a win-win, unless you count the inevitable worm encounters.
Compost Chaos or Compost Calm?
Will New Yorkers embrace this new green lifestyle with open arms, or will we revolt in a citywide banana peel rebellion? Only time will tell. But let’s be honest, if we can handle the subway system, we can probably handle a compost bin.
Important Note: While the exact details are still being ironed out, it’s likely that there will be fines for not composting. So, unless you enjoy paying extra for throwing away food scraps, it might be wise to invest in a compost bin.
Compost Tips for the Uninitiated
- Start small: Begin with easy-to-compost items like fruit and vegetable scraps.
- Avoid meat and dairy: These can attract pests and create odor issues.
- Layer it up: Alternate between brown materials (like dried leaves) and green materials (like grass clippings) for optimal composting.
- Patience is a virtue: Composting takes time, so don’t expect instant dirt.
- Embrace the worms: They’re your composting buddies, not frenemies.
How To... Compost Like a Pro
- How to avoid compost odors: Proper layering and turning your compost regularly can help prevent unpleasant smells.
- How to attract helpful composting critters: Add a variety of organic materials to encourage beneficial insects and worms.
- How to troubleshoot common compost problems: Research online resources or consult a local gardening expert for solutions.
- How to use compost in your garden: Incorporate compost into your soil to improve its fertility and drainage.
- How to dispose of compost if you don’t have a garden: Many community gardens accept compost donations.
So, there you have it. Composting is coming to NYC. Whether you’re a seasoned compost connoisseur or a composting newbie, it’s time to get ready to embrace the green life. Happy composting!