Question

Briefly describe the process of composting.

Answer 1

1. Organic matter constitutes 35%–40% of the municipal solid waste generated in India.
2. Composting is a technique for converting household waste or agricultural waste into compost.
3. It is a waste disposal technique in which biodegradable waste is decomposed by microbes and is converted into manure.
4. Fallen leaves, grass, sewage, food waste and biodegradable household waste can be converted into compost by the action of microbes.
5. Microbes degrade carbonic material into simpler substances in moist and warm environments.
6. In this method, the microorganisms help stabilize the organic matter.
7. The process involves the decomposition of organic waste into humus known as compost.
8. Compost is a good fertilizer for plants. It is also known as brown manure.
9. It is used in landscaping, horticulture and agriculture as a soil conditioner and fertilizer.