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In general, the composting process involves a number of components: 1.Receiving – Organic materials are received at the facility, weighed and stockpiled prior to processing. The receiving area can be an open area, partially enclosed area or fully enclosed area such as a building. Enclosed receiving areas can be equipped with a ventilation system to control odors by directing odor and other gases from the waste materials through a filtering system. Some organic materials such as food scraps are generally not stockpiled for any length of time and are typically incorporated into the composting process within a short period of time. In some, permitting requirements may limit the length of time these materials can be stockpiled.

2.Pre-processing – Organic materials are screened to remove large materials (e.g., branches) and non-organic materials (e.g., plastic bags). Various types of organic materials (e.g., food scraps, yard trimmings, soiled paper) are mixed and shredded to create a material that meets the proper control parameters. The types of organic materials and mixtures that can be processed and the amount of shredding required will depend on the recycling process or technology used. In addition, separation of organic materials for recycling at the collection point or source may be needed to minimize the amount of non-organic materials incompatible with the food scrap recycling process being used.

3.Processing – Pre-processed organic materials are placed in piles or introduced into process vessels where the aerobic or anaerobic processes will occur.

4.Post-processing – Processed organic materials are screened to remove non-organic materials that may not have been removed during pre-processing and large particles remaining after processing to create fine-grade compost for distribution or sale. In some cases, additional curing time or processing may be needed. For anaerobic digestion, the solid or semi-solid material or digestate that remains at the completion of the anaerobic digestion process will typically need to be processed further to develop compost. For the aerobic invessel process, additional curing may be needed to develop the compost.

5.Odor management - Odor is one of the primary concerns when handling materials that are capable of decaying. Odors can be an issue during the receiving and processing of organic materials and during the active composting phase of the process. Odor and other emission controls may be used during receiving, pre-processing and processing to divert air flow from these areas to bio-filters or other treatment systems.

6.Water treatment – Stormwater and leachate management can also be a significant concern. Control systems, such as impoundments, treatment systems or direct connections to sanitary sewer lines may be needed to meet regulatory requirements.

7.Storage – Compost may need to be stored at the facility prior to delivery or sale.

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Benefits such as reduced waste disposal and creation of nutrient-rich compost for landscaping and gardening have led to an increased interest in implementing large-scale food scrap recycling processes. However, identifying the ideal recycling method for a community can be a challenging process due to the complex nature of the decision factors involved and the capabilities of the available composting technologies. Each community is unique and as such, each must go through a thorough decision making process to select the most appropriate technology and location for recycling compostable items.

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Making sure waste isn’t wasted

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Food wastage footprint

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Agriculture Organization of the United Nations

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CGIAR Research Program on Climate Change

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Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations

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The basics of sustainable waste management in animated form

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The basics of sustainable waste management in animated form, produced for the Östergötland County Council in Sweden, for the "Waste To Energy" EU project. Concept, script, design and art direction by Dedicate, animation by Jonas Porsgaard of SAPP (sapp.se).

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The food you throw away can also be recycled. Recycled food waste is converted into compost, liquid fertiliser and biogas fuel.

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The food you throw away can also be recycled, and the City of Edinburgh Council provides a recycling service that ultimately aims to divert 20,000 tonnes from landfill every year. Recycled food waste is converted into compost, liquid fertiliser and biogas fuel.