Composting simply involves the decomposition of organic material to make a nutrient rich soil fertiliser for garden and house plants. Organic materials can include garden waste such as grass, leaves and hedge clippings as well as organic kitchen waste, including tea bags, fruit skins, vegetable peelings. You can even add bits of card and shredded paper to your compost bin. It is a great way to develop your own organic plant fertiliser as well as reducing the amount of waste in the black bin.

With the Council’s new alternate weekly collection scheme having started in April the push is on for everyone to reduce, reuse and recycle as much of their waste as possible.

This year Newtownabbey Borough Council is offering compost bins at a reduced rate of just £5 each, including delivery. Just email Mary McGinn, Recycling Assistant on mmcginn@newtownabbey.gov.uk or call 028 9034 0074.

Arc21, which represents Newtownabbey and 10 other councils based along the eastern region of Northern Ireland, is also promoting the use of compost as part of a drive to “reduce, reuse and recycle.”

Commonly referred to as ‘black gold’ by gardening enthusiasts, compost is made from decomposed organic materials and has many well-known benefits for gardens and the environment. Rich in nutrients, it is a natural soil conditioner, proven to help plants’ health and growth.

“You don’t need to be born with green fingers to produce high quality compost; anyone can do it. Home composting bins are not expensive and can be found in your local gardening centre or by contacting your local council,” explained Ricky Burnett, director of policy at arc21.

“Maintaining a compost bin is also a relatively simple process as it will start looking after itself once you get it started.”

Mr. Burnett stressed that home composting plays an important role in helping to meet strict EU landfill diversion targets.

He warned, however, that compost piles should not be used as dumping grounds for all household waste, as they cannot take cooked meats, fish, dairy products cat and dog litter.

“Uncooked vegetable peelings, fruit, hedge trimmings, leaves, egg boxes, tea bags, coffee grounds and cardboard or shredded paper are what you need,” said Mr. Burnett.

“The right mix of these items, along with the odd splash of water, will create a healthy, happy compost pile.”

For more information on home composting and how to get started, contact Newtownabbey Borough Council.