How is commercial composting different from backyard composting?

Industrial composting at Bees Ferry has a few major differences from backyard piles:

  • Larger piles (windrows and aerated static piles)
  • A more diverse assortment of acceptable materials (like meat, dairy, cheese, bioplastics and paper compostable wares, for example)
  • The decomposition process is faster in general - so 30-45 days vs. 6-12 months
  • The finished product is generally more robust because it has been well managed and aerated properly.

Image of Bees Ferry Compost Facility courtesy of Charleston County.

Bees Ferry Compost Facility from Charleston County

Show All Answers

1. Why are the food scrap carts locked and what is the lock code?
2. Should I use a compostable liner bag in my bin or pour food scraps into cart loosely?
3. Is there a difference between biodegradable and compostable?
4. I live in the region but not in the official City of Charleston limits, may I participate too?
5. Can I add yard debris to the food scrap carts?
6. Where can I report a maintenance concern or program issue?
7. Why aren't there more drop sites?
8. How do I store my food scraps?
9. How frequently should I drop-off my food scraps?
10. Will the program accept compostable bags and other BPI certified compostable containers?
11. Where will the food scraps go?
12. How often are the food-waste carts emptied?
13. What are the benefits of composting?
14. How do I sign-up and is there a cost?
15. How do I participate and when are drop sites open?
16. What items can I put in the food scrap carts?
17. How is commercial composting different from backyard composting?
18. I already compost in my backyard, can I still drop off food scraps and participate in the program?
19. I’d like to compost in my backyard, do you have any tips?
20. Can businesses compost using this program?