Why is Composting Important?
In natural systems, no such thing as “waste” exists. Energy and matter captured by life processes are released upon the breakdown of organic substances only to be re-utilized by living organisms within the system. Long-term soil fertility is maintained in natural systems because the residues of biological decomposition are reused by them to foster new growth. The transformation and flow of the nutrient-containing chemical compounds involved in this process is often referred to as “nutrient cycling”. Nutrient cycling helps ensure the stability of natural systems over time by linking the processes of synthesis (build-up) and degradation (breakdown). This intricate cycle can be disrupted when components from within the system are removed without being replaced. The large-scale extraction of natural resources for humanity’s benefit seriously alters natural ecosystems. Where this has happened, it has presented societies with two major challenges. One challenge is to avoid resource depletion
