6th Board
Did you know that the concept of waste does not exist in nature? All organic materials are part of the natural cycle. Unfortunately, our society treats these materials as waste and removes them from this cycle. This disrupts natural processes, leading to soil degradation, reduced food quality, and increased impacts of climate change. Organic waste accounts for about one-third of household waste. By separating and treating it in an environmentally friendly way, we can reduce overall waste and contribute to its reuse as humus—keeping the natural cycle unbroken.
This interactive element shows two circular layers:
The inner circle illustrates the phases of composting
The outer circle highlights the organisms involved in each phase
1. Collection Phase
Animals and humans collect organic materials for composting. Humans gather vegetable peelings and green waste, placing them into a compost bin or heap. At this stage, plant remains are still clearly visible on the top of the pile.
2. Decomposition Phase
This is when heat is generated, and both dry (carbon-rich) and wet (nitrogen-rich) materials begin to break down. Primary decomposers such as actinomycetes and bacteria are active during this phase.
3. Transformation Phase
The compost pile shrinks and collapses. It must be turned and mixed to provide oxygen and maintain decomposition. Secondary consumers such as mites, worms, larvae, and springtails become dominant.
4. Maturation (Ripening) Phase
The pile begins to cool and is left to rest. Once matured, it should be sieved.
Tertiary consumers like earthworms, ants, snails, and centipedes thrive in this phase. The finished compost can then be mixed into garden soil.
And now we return to the beginning: the compost nourishes the soil, and the organisms in it use the nutrients to grow vibrant vegetable or ornamental gardens—completing the natural cycle.
May 22 – International Day for Biological Diversity
First full week of May – International Compost Awareness Week
September 29 – International Day of Food Waste Awareness
October 10 – Composting Day
December 5 – World Soil Day
