Green Corner: Composting 101

One of the best kept secrets at the Robertson Building is that we do have an informal composting program. So far, we have been trying it out with just a few tenants but are now ready to expand it to everyone on a trial basis.

The compost is collected in large bins marked “compost only” on the third, fourth, and fifth floors near the freight elevator. For the time being we are going to use only these collection sites, but may expand this depending on how things go. These bins are transported by our staff to our composting units on the roof.

Please keep in mind that this is not like your green bin at home – the composting is only of organic matter like fruits and vegetables. No meat, oils, breads, or other items can be included.

Composting has numerous environmental benefits that fit well with the values of the community at 215 Spadina. Composting not only provides an opportunity for waste diversion keeping organic matter out of landfill, but creates a highly beneficial product that can be easily put into action in our roof garden. The composting process encourages the production of beneficial micro-organisms, which break down organic matter to create humus. This rich nutrient-filled material increases the nutrients and moisture retention in soils. Compost has also been shown to suppress plant diseases and pests, and reduce or eliminate the need for chemical fertilizers. 

As a special incentive to get you going on this new program, Dennis Fryer will be delivering some biodegradable bags that you can use for collection.

For more information you can visit the Composting Council of Canada at: www.compost.org

Photo caption: Dennis Mantin, Maintenance and Mechanical Systems and Dennis Fryer, Building Operator, with the new composting bin on the roof at 215 Spadina.