This study tested shortening thermophilic composting of university kitchen waste from 30 days to 10–15 days, finishing the process with vermicomposting (worms) or millicomposting (millipedes). Results show that this hybrid approach reduces processing time by ~40% while maintaining or improving nutrient extraction and bio-stimulant activity. Vermicomposting after 10 days provided the most balanced fertilizer, while… Continue reading SCI.215-Hybrid Composting of Institutional Food-Prep Waste: Early …-AC26.USCC
Category: Composting Science
SCI.314-On site Greenhouse Gas Emissions Analysis in Composting Pi…-AC26.USCC
This presentation highlights a study on greenhouse gas emissions from composting high-nitrogen materials like slaughterhouse sludge and hatchery waste. Using continuous monitoring with SmartCompost sensors, researchers tracked CH₄, NH₃, H₂S, and VOCs across nine piles. The content of this course is covered by Copyright and Licensing, Privacy and Terms of Service and Use and shall… Continue reading SCI.314-On site Greenhouse Gas Emissions Analysis in Composting Pi…-AC26.USCC
SCI.216-Using Digestate as a Feedstock-AC26.USCC
This presentation covers a pilot project in Howard County, MD, exploring the co-composting of food waste digestate from Bioenergy Devco (BDC) with local wood waste and other feedstocks at the Alpha Ridge Landfill composting facility. Using Aerated Static Pile (ASP) systems, the goal is to develop an STA-certified compost while evaluating optimal processing, timeline, costs,… Continue reading SCI.216-Using Digestate as a Feedstock-AC26.USCC
SCI.213-The Gold Beneath – Compost Amendments for Carbon Storage a…-AC26.CREF
This three-year study in California’s Central Valley found that combining annual compost applications with cover crops in nut orchards significantly improved soil health and carbon sequestration. Results included increased labile carbon, doubled microbial biomass, improved nitrogen retention, stronger soil structure, and nearly doubled total soil organic carbon in the upper 30 cm. The findings demonstrate that… Continue reading SCI.213-The Gold Beneath – Compost Amendments for Carbon Storage a…-AC26.CREF
SCI.313-Lessons Learned While Providing Technical Assistance to On…-AC25.USCC
Northern Tilth, LLC has been providing nutrient management planning services to livestock operations in the northeastern U.S. Their recent grant from the USDA-NRCS in Connecticut focuses on offering technical assistance to improve on-farm composting operations. The grant project aims to enhance composting outcomes, particularly for soil and water quality. This presentation will discuss the lessons… Continue reading SCI.313-Lessons Learned While Providing Technical Assistance to On…-AC25.USCC
SCI.312-Exploring the Compostability of Agrochemicals-AC25.USCC
This presentation covers the EPA’s compostability studies on agrochemicals to assess their environmental impact. It includes experimental design, feedstock analysis, sampling strategies, and evaluating compost quality, including pesticide residue breakdown and plant growth effects. The aim is to ensure pesticides are used safely for human and environmental health. The content of this course is covered… Continue reading SCI.312-Exploring the Compostability of Agrochemicals-AC25.USCC
SCI.311-Considering the Impact of Biochar Characteristics on Co-Co…-AC25.USCC
Recent research has highlighted the benefits of using biochar as an admixture in co-composting, including improved stabilization rates, reduced odor and VOC emissions, and enhanced nutrient mineralization. However, many studies have lacked quantitative measures of stabilization rates and have not systematically analyzed how biochar properties influence these outcomes. To address these gaps, ECS conducted controlled… Continue reading SCI.311-Considering the Impact of Biochar Characteristics on Co-Co…-AC25.USCC
SCI.310-Assessing Household Food Waste Generation in the San Joaqu…-AC25.CREF
This study explores decentralized composting in California’s San Joaquin Valley to support SB 1383’s goal of diverting 75% of organic waste from landfills. Researchers surveyed 400 households, finding that each produces an average of 530 pounds of food waste annually. While 79% are willing to compost at home and 74% support curbside collection, only 26%… Continue reading SCI.310-Assessing Household Food Waste Generation in the San Joaqu…-AC25.CREF
SCI.212-Comparative Analysis of Mesh Bag Field Testing Method-AC25.USCC
This session will examine the widely used mesh-bag method for field testing compostability, addressing concerns about its accuracy compared to real-world composting conditions. Multi-year data on moisture, temperature, and microbial communities inside and outside mesh bags, evaluating statistical significance and reproducibility are presented. The discussion will also compare mesh-bag and bagless methods, highlighting their challenges… Continue reading SCI.212-Comparative Analysis of Mesh Bag Field Testing Method-AC25.USCC
SCI.111-Key Field Testing Results from the New CFTP Field Testing …-AC25.CREF
The Compostable Field Testing Program (CFTP) helps composters assess compostable foodware and packaging in real-world conditions. In 2024, it released public field testing data, providing insights into product disintegration. An interactive dashboard allows users to explore results based on material type and composting conditions. The presentation will cover key findings, operational implications, and guidance for… Continue reading SCI.111-Key Field Testing Results from the New CFTP Field Testing …-AC25.CREF