Frequently Asked Questions

• I don't have a garden or any outdoor space. Can I compost indoors?

  Unfortunately, it is difficult to compost if you are without an outdoor space.  In theory, wormeries can be used inside as they should be odourless and hygienic. In practice it is not usually recom... read on

• Does composting reduce the amount of greenhouse gasses released compared to landfill?

  All organic material has the potential to rot. However this process requires a good supply of oxygen to support the organisms responsible for the process of decomposition.  This is called aerobic d... read on

• I wish to buy a compost bin made from recycled materials, how long are they expected to last?

  Many of the compost bins you will find on the market are made from bottle-derived material which has been recycled.  They are flexible, impact resistant and the material is not brittle.  They shoul... read on

• How do you calculate the size of compost bin to suit you best?

  It is quite difficult to judge the size of compost bin required as it will depend on the quantity of fresh fruit and vegetables eaten and the type of garden you have.  Generally speaking, a 200-300... read on

• My compost bin will have to be placed on hard paving. What do you suggest?

  Some designs of compost bin are promoted for use on concrete.  Ensure you put a generous layer of soil in the base to get you started. This will contain worm eggs and lots of minibeasts that will s... read on

• Most of our kitchen waste is vegetable peelings, meat, bones and fish. What system would you recomend in a small garden?

  If your meat, bones, fish and cooked food make up a relatively small proportion of your waste then I would stick to conventional composting and throw these items in the dustbin.  With conventional ... read on

• I do not have a garden to house a compost bin. What alternative do I have to recycle my kitchen waste?

  The first thing to do is find out is whether your council operates a food waste collection.   Unfortunately, unless you have an outside space to site a compost bin or wormery, your options are limi... read on

• I would love to compost my household waste but only have a very small decked area. Is there any way that I can use a compost bin?

   I wouldn't recommend using a compost bin on a decking area as any liquids draining from it may stain your decking.  The only solution would be to build a raised bed on top of the deck. There is fu... read on

• Can I use an old rubbish bin as a compost bin?

  An old plastic dustbin can be used as a compost bin. If used upside down with the bottom cut out, leave an edge of an inch or so to provide some stability. The lid can be placed over the bin to kee... read on

• I haven't started composting yet and was just wondering if there were any reported health risks associated with it. I've heard about a possible link between composting and aspergillosis?

  There have been studies on a possible link between aspergillosis and people exposed to high concentrations of aspergillus fumigatus, which can cause it, such as those that work at large scale compo... read on