it’s EARTH month!! so all my five for friday posts this month, typically posted on haus von yarger, will be posted over here and dedicated to encouraging simple and sustainable practices in, around and out of the house.
so let’s talk trash!!
According to the EPA, food waste is the third largest waste stream in the United States (after paper and yard waste). Of that, some 97% or 31 million tons are thrown into landfills or incinerators. But, excess food, leftovers and scraps that are not fit for consumption and donation can be used to feed the soil by recycling (composting) food waste into a nutrient rich soil amendment.
until we REALLY started recycling just last month, i didn’t realize how much waste there was in food packaging! coupled with our transition from paper towels (i’m rationing my last two roles) to machine washable kitchen towels, we’ve seen a tremendous reduction in our trash.
i don’t think i’m ready for a full outdoor composter with worms and such (baby steps), so i’ve been looking at these small indoor pails. they sell biodegradable liners to contain the waste, and the lids should conceal odor and keep the fruit flies away. i’m hoping this will be a perfect and easy solution for all those banana and orange peels, among other things.
here are a few reasonable options (with their retailers’ description)…
Ceramic Countertop Compost. Who knew compost could look so pretty! This simple container by Beth Mueller will remind you to compost the little things, such as coffee grounds and orange rinds, and give your kitchen counter an artful touch. Uncommon Goods. $60
Wide-Mouth Compost Pail . This galvanized steel pail is not only practical and affordable, it also lends a rustic touch to both farmhouse-style and modern kitchens. The oval shape conserves counter space and provides a wide opening so it's easy to scrape plates without spilling. Gardner's Supply Co. $17
Stainless Steel Compost Pail. Countertop-worthy design, odor-absorbing filter, and generous capacity make each of these shining stainless pails the ideal way to compost right in the kitchen. Dishwasher-safe pail is outfitted with two replaceable charcoal filters. Crate and Barrel. $40-55
Green Stoneware Compost Crock. No one will guess this handsome crock is collecting food scraps for composting, so you can keep it right on the kitchen counter. An activated charcoal filter in the lid traps odors, and it’s dishwasher-safe, too. Made of glazed ceramic, the crock comes with 2 filters that last up to two months each. Gardner's Supply Co. $30
Bamboo Compost Pail. Composting in the kitchen is easy with our Bamboo Compost Pail. It features a removable liner that is dishwasher-safe. A set of charcoal filters in the vented lid help contain odors. It features a generous 1 gallon capacity. The Container Store. $40
which is your favorite?
do you have experience with an indoor compost?
visit treehugger.com for even more details on How to Green Your Kitchen.
i hate you for making me feel guilty. today, i bought two shopping bags. now i do not have to choose between paper and plastic. i hope you do not sleep well tonight. i love you.
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