The Hertfordshire WasteAware partnership is working with Recycle Now Home Composting Campaign to provide bargain compost bins to Hertfordshire residents.

The composters are available from as little as £15 plus £5.49 delivery charge (per order). To find out more and to order your bin visit the 'Get Composting' website or telephone 0844 571 4444.

What is a Composter?

Composters are recycled plastic bins for the garden. Waste deposited in a composter prevents odour you would normally find in your bin. All composters have a lid and hatch.

Why Compost?

The majority of waste is disposed of in landfill sites throughout the country. The council is committed to reducing the amount of waste sent to landfill sites, in accordance with the National Waste Strategy 2000. The Strategy specifies that we must recycle or compost 30% of household waste by 2010. The government also set the target of ensuring that 40% of households with a garden compost by 2001. As a council we are dependant upon the help and support of our residents to enable these targets to be met.

Kitchen and garden waste accounts for about 1/3 of rubbish produced by an average household - Most of this can be composted. By composting at home you can help to reduce the over 500,000 tonnes of household rubbish that is produced in Hertfordshire every year.

It is the organic part of waste that causes the production of gas at landfill sites. This gas, largely made of methane is released into the atmosphere and contributes towards global warming. As the material rots it also produces leachate, a polluting liquid that can seep into rivers. It is not necessary to send organic waste to landfill sites as it can be converted into a useful product by householders.

Compost bins can be purchased which convert food waste and other organic material into compost. Composting is one of the Best Practicable Environmental Options for the reduction of waste to landfill.

• It is possible to reduce 20% of the waste in a bin without causing any environmental damage. This is more environmentally friendly than recycling as no energy input is required for transport or in the recycling process.
• By composting you can produce a supply of free, naturally produced and environmentally friendly soil conditioner. This is ideal for digging in, mulching and potting mixes.
• Home made compost can be used as a substitute for peat. This helps to preserve natural peat bogs, which take thousands of years to form.
• Compost is a complete and natural food for your soil. It improves structure, water retention and overall health.

For hints and tips on how to get the best results from your compost bin see the 'get composting' website.