Trends in treatment and utilization of solid wastes through composting in the United States

During the early nineties, considerable progress was made in recycling of m unicipal solid wastes through composting. Compost quality had major impacts on the adoption of waste separation strategies and systems of composting u sed by communities. Currently, yard waste composting is practiced widely. F ood and restaurant waste composting is increasing also. However, composting of commingled municipal solid wastes has all but been abandoned. Compostin g of municipal, paper mill and other industrial sludges is increasing. The composting process also is used widely for bioremediation of contaminated s oils. Concerns over the release of pathogens and organic nutrients from ani mal manures into the environment, as well as contamination of food with pat hogens, has emphasized problems associated with treatment and utilization o f these solid wastes. Innovative animal housing facilities and manure manag ement systems now are available which produce composts cost effectively and this development is beginning to have an impact on solid waste management on farms. Markets for high quality composts as horticultural products such as mulches and patting mix ingredients are increasing steadily. The phase-o ut of methyl bromide promises to further stimulate utilization of composts for suppression of plant diseases. Demands on quality control are likely to increase here as well. Regulations and guidelines governing composting and compost quality standards now are under consideration by the states.