A shortcut to compost
Russell’s community gardens are enjoying something of a renaissance, thanks in part to the installation of a new hot composting system.
Donated by Richard Wallis, from New Zealand Box, the system comprises three 1.5 cubic metre bins, which will turn green waste and food scraps, even compostable cups and plates, into dark, crumbly compost in around 10 weeks. Traditional ‘cold’ composting does the same job in six to 12 months.
With the right recipe and management, a hot compost bin can reach temperatures as high as 80C.
Malin Vilkki, who has been working hard to restore the gardens to their previous productiveness, said the arrival of the new compost bins marked a turning point.
“The gardens have fed the community for 11 years, and are here for everyone,” she added.
“The compost system means the garden will build up to produce more veges with all its green waste going back into the beds.”
The new system is an initiative of Russell Recyclers, Richard Wallis and local volunteers putting it together earlier this month, Russell Recyclers chairman John Maxwell saying it was part of a plan to make the town selfsufficient in terms of reusing its own waste.
“Our aim is for a kerbside collection of food waste, processed here alongside our recycling,” he said. “The hot composting system is a great green waste and scraps solution for schools, community gardens and enviro businesses.”