*Compost is the end result of controlled aerobic decomposition of organic matter known as composting.
* It is used in landscaping, horticulture and agriculture as a soil conditioner and fertilizer to add vital humus or humic acids.

*Compost serves as a growing medium, or a porous, absorbent material that holds moisture and soluble minerals, providing the support and nutrients in which plants can flourish.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Compost

* The basic principles are quite simple, and adhering to them will result in an efficient and successful outcome. Studies have shown that home composting can divert an average of 700 lbs. of material per household per year from the waste stream.
*Composting is an excellent way to avoid both wasting useful, natural resources and creating environmental problems, while at the same time producing a high quality and inexpensive soil amendment.

*Composting is the transformation of organic material (plant matter) through decomposition into a soil-like material called compost. Invertebrates (insects and earthworms), and microorganisms (bacteria and fungi) help in transforming the material into compost. Composting is a natural form of recycling, which continually occurs in nature.
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* Yard and food wastes make up approximately 30% of the waste stream in the United States. Composting most of these waste streams would reduce the amount of Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) requiring disposal by almost one fourth, while at the same time provide a nutrient-rich soil amendment.

*Compost added to gardens improves soil structure, texture, aeration, and water retention. When mixed with compost, clay soils are lightened, and sandy soils retain water better. Mixing compost with soil also contributes to erosion control, soil fertility, proper pH balance, and healthy root development in plants.

http://www.howtocompost.org/info/info_composting.asp

First a word of thanks and appreciation to Amiad Lapidot !

It was after hearing Amaid talk that I first became interested in compost - and from there to recyling ! its worthwhile to visit his site

After listening to Amaid's talk I felt that I had to make my contribution to "saving the planet" As the head gardener I was in a unique position to push a compost project forward.

The first step was to provide a small [5 liter bucket] to every household in Kfar Ruppin that were interested. After purchasing the buckets I spent many evenings visiting each home in Kfar Ruppin trying to "sell" the idea of sorting organic waste at its source - in the home.

By each green rubbish container I placed a home made stand with a 60 liter bucket for the collect of the organic waste.

Today there are 9 stands placed around the kibbutz including the Dining Room and the Village store. I collect and empty these twice a week.

500 meters from the Kibbutz is a deserted army base - here I dump the orgaic waste and add to it leaf mould, cattle and other manure.

The organic waste is left to mature for around 6 -9 months . Every month or so I turn it over. The results are shown here - wonderful compost.

The end result is then bagged for distribution to the householders in Kfar Ruppin.