4th to 10th May 2025 is International Compost Awareness Week (ICAW), celebrated and promoted by the Compost Research & Education Foundation. In this article we look at how organisations and households can benefit from composting and reduce the environmental impact of their waste.
An introduction to composting
Composting is the process of recycling organic matter into fertiliser, providing the optimum conditions for decomposition. It is more sustainable than sending organic waste to landfill and produces nutrient-rich fertiliser that can be used for horticulture and agriculture.
You can compost:
- green waste, such as food scraps, weeds and leaves; and
- brown waste, such as prunings and cardboard.
Benefits of composting
Composting is great for the environment and can help organisations and households to:
- reduce costs and efforts for waste collection;
- minimise methane and carbon emissions;
- educate and involve employees in sustainability projects and their advantages;
- support habitats, promote biodiversity and improve environments.
Rules for organisations composting
Organisations don’t usually require an environmental permit or licence for small-scale aerobic composting, such as for composting catering waste. Guidance on exemptions for each UK jurisdiction has been issued by:
- Environment Agency (England and Wales*);
- Scottish Environment Protection Agency; and
- Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (Northern Ireland).
*The T23 waste exemption for aerobic composting applies identically in Wales as it does in England, however the exemption must be applied for through Natural Resource Wales.
Stricter rules apply for organisations looking to compost commercial or industrial waste, additional guidance on rules can be found here.
Starting composting
It’s easy to start composting waste and doesn’t require specialist or costly equipment. The Soil Association provides guidance on how to make your own compost and get the best results here.
If you’re based in northwest England and are looking for additional guidance and support, or can’t compost on your premises, the Offshoots Community Garden in Burnley offers volunteering and community sessions, as well as corporate events.
Offshoots is part of Newground Together, a charity funded by The Compliance People.
