Why Is This Dirt So Amazing?

The Numbers

• Americans generate about 290 million tons of trash each year.
• More than 30% of what we throw in the trash could have been composted. 
• Composting has been around for 12,000 years.

_{Sources for statistics: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and National Geographic}

Composting Is:

• For Everyone: It can be done in backyards or indoors or by giving scraps to a local organization to compost for you. 
• Safe: Compost is safe to use in home gardens. 
• Earth-Friendly: It reduces the amount of trash going to landfills.

How It Works:

1. Natural waste is placed in a pile or bin. 
2. Over time, decomposers such as bacteria, fungi, and worms break down the waste, leaving behind nutrients.
3. Eventually, the mixture turns into a soil-like material that can be used as fertilizer. That’s compost! 

Can You Compost That?

YES!

• fruits and vegetables
• eggshells
• cardboard and paper 
• leaves and grass 
• hair and fur

NO!

• dairy products 
• bones
• pet waste 
• fats and oils 
• plastic