Incredible. Climate-Saving. Composting

Composting and using other organic fertilizers on farmland may "contribute significantly to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions" by boosting the amount of carbon stored in soils, according to a new study in Waste Management & Research.

Agriculture is a huge but popularly underappreciated source of greenhouse gas emissions. While raising livestock and clearing forests for new farms are major sources, fields that are tilled and fertilized can themselves be sources of atmospheric pollution. The new study suggested that Europe could meet 8.6% of its carbon reduction target by applying organic compost practices on farmland.

“Furthermore, increasing organic matter in soils may cause other greenhouse gas-saving effects, such as improved workability of soils, better water retention, less production and use of mineral fertilizers and pesticides, and reduced release of nitrous oxide,” write Enzo Favoino and Dominic Hogg, authors of the paper.

Homeowners can take the message to heart in their own lawns and gardens.

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