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Carbon, Coatings, and Conundrums: What Makes the Cut?

Writer's picture: Alexia P.Alexia P.

When it comes time, understanding what materials you can and can’t add to your pile is essential for creating nutrient-rich compost. One of the key players in the composting game is carbon, often referred to as "browns." But what exactly are these carbon sources, and why are some materials, like shiny paper, off-limits?


The Role of Carbon in Composting


Carbon is a vital component of a healthy compost mix. It provides the energy necessary for microorganisms to break down organic matter. Think of carbon-rich materials as the fuel that powers the composting process.


A good balance of carbon and nitrogen (the "greens") is crucial - ideally, you want about three parts carbon (browns) to one part nitrogen (greens).


Types of Carbon You Can Compost



Here are some fantastic sources of carbon that you can easily add to your compost:


  1. Dry Leaves: The shifting of seasons can be a composter's best friend! Shredded leaves decompose nicely and add valuable carbon to your compost pile.

  2. Straw or Hay: Excellent for aerating your compost and maintaining moisture levels.

  3. Cardboard: As long as it’s not glossy or heavily printed, cardboard can break down incredibly well. Don’t stress as pizza boxes are included in this! Here at Neighborhood Compost we’ve partnered with Central School in Glen Rock to assist in their Pizza Day composting efforts. Understand more about composting your pizza boxes here.

  4. Paper Products: Uncoated paper like newspaper, office paper, or paper towels can be composted, but remember to avoid anything shiny, coated, or soaked in harsh chemical cleaning products!


One great thing about carbon is "thermophilic composting" - that materials with structure, like leaves or paper towel tubes, do more than just add carbon! They create "architecture" within the pile, allowing oxygen to flow and aid in decomposition. Without this airflow, your compost can become anaerobic (lacking oxygen), slowing the process down. To assist in this, crumble stray pieces of paper into a ball before adding them to your compost pile. This small step can make a big difference in keeping your compost healthy and efficient!


Why Can’t I Compost Shiny Paper?



We define "shiny" paper as any type of paper product that has a glossy or reflective surface such as magazines, gift wrap, and photographic paper. Its coated surface is often developed from plastic or treated with chemicals that can be harmful to the composting process. Here’s why you should steer clear of it:


  • Non-Biodegradable Materials: The shiny coating often contains plastics that do not break down naturally in compost, leading to contamination.

  • Harsh Chemicals: Many glossy papers are printed with inks and coatings that can leach chemicals into the compost, affecting the quality and safety of your finished product and produce grown from it.

  • Disruption of Microbial Activity: Shiny papers can disrupt the balance of microorganisms in your compost, which can hinder the decomposition process and result in a less effective compost.


Getting the Most Out of Your Compost


Aim to include a variety of carbon sources to create a balanced and effective compost pile. By knowing which materials to include and which to avoid, you can ensure your composting efforts lead to rich, healthy soil for your garden or community space.


Remember, composting is a journey of trial and error! Don't stress, we've got your back.


With time and Neighborhood Compost’s help, we can cultivate a healthier planet, one compost bucket at a time! To learn more about our Residential Composting Service, visit our website or email us at info@neighborhoodcompost.com

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