Segregating, recycling and composting

Almost all contents of a dustbin can be recycled or turned into compost.

Segregating garbage at homes, schools or societies can help to save environment and to reduce carbon footprints. When wet waste is mixed with dry waste, it's called garbage. For 'zero garbage', the wet waste should be separated from dry waste.

Placing your bin : Keep the bin on a level, well drained spot. This allows excess water to drain out. Placing your bin in a partially sunny spot can speed up the composting process.

Put these in : Fill the bin with your wet waste, anything right from vegetable peelings, fruit waste, waste, teabags, plant pruning and grass cuttings can go in. These are considered organic waste or ‘greens’ and are quick to rot. The other things you can compost include cardboard egg boxes, scrunched up paper and fallen leaves. These are called ‘browns’ and are slower to rot. Crushed eggshells can also be added

Keep these out : No cooked vegetables, no meat, no dairy products, no diseased plants, and definitely no cat liter, or baby’s nappies

Making good compost: The key to good compost lies in getting the mix right. You need to keep your greens and browns properly balanced. If your compost is too wet, add more browns. If it’s too dry

Using your Compost : Finished compost is a dark brown, almost black soil- like layer that you will find at the bottom of your bin. Spreading the finished compost into your garden and plant pots.