Learning the Art of Composting

By Newport This Week Staff | on June 08, 2023

Bella Quiroga, left, will present another composting talk on June 11.

en Español

Two events to raise awareness about environmentalism and teach affordable composting techniques are being held by a sophomore at East Bay MET High School.

Bella Quiroga's internship at Clean Ocean Access inspired her to organize events to address the lack of accessible resources in the community. The first event, held June 4, was in Spanish, and the upcoming event will take place on June 11, at 5 p.m., at Saint Joseph's Church. The presentations aim to bridge the knowledge and resource gap in composting.

"Composting is a simple yet powerful way to reduce waste and make a positive change for the planet," said Quiroga.

She emphasizes the importance of balancing green and brown materials, aeration, moisture control and breaking down slow-decomposing items.

Using a five-gallon bucket, participants learned about the simple steps for composting. Begin by drilling holes in the bucket's lid and along the bottom and side of the bin, add a base layer of sticks, layering brown and green materials in the bucket. Add a first layer of brown materials, such as dried leaves, ripped paper bags or newspaper. The bucket should have mostly brown material.

Next, add a green layer, such as grass clippings, fruit, vegetables, egg shells and coffee grounds. Continue alternating these layers until you’ve run out of material or you’ve reached the top just below the lid.

Close the lid tightly and let it sit outside in a shady spot. Roll the bin around a few times a week, or mix it around with a stick.

"By transforming organic materials into nutrient-rich compost, we can enrich our soils and contribute to a more sustainable and circular economy," she said.

She believes that composting reduces landfill waste, improves soil quality and minimizes greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to a sustainable future. Small actions can have significant consequences. By attending, we as a community collectively commit to a greener, more sustainable future.

By fostering community and collaboration, Quiroga hopes to inspire individuals to embrace composting as a simple, yet effective step toward environmental stewardship.

"Rather than just having people actively composting, just at least getting the idea in their head that composting exists, and having them see this new perspective of composting, is important," she said.

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