Course Outline

Module 1: Introduction to Organic Waste Recycling

• Sources and characteristics of organic waste: food waste, yard waste, agricultural residues.

• Environmental benefits: landfill diversion, methane reduction, soil improvement.

• Exercise: Characterizing the organic waste stream from a municipality or large generator.

Module 2: The Science of Composting

• Microbiology of composting: mesophilic and thermophilic phases.

• Key process parameters: carbon-to-nitrogen ratio, moisture, oxygen, temperature, pH.

• Workshop: Calculating and adjusting the C/N ratio for a feedstock mix.

Module 3: Composting System Technologies

• Windrow composting: turning methods and scheduling.

• Aerated static pile (ASP) systems: forced aeration and temperature control.

• In-vessel composting: reactors, tunnels, and containers.

• Case Study: Comparing the cost and space requirements of different composting systems.

Module 4: Composting Process Management and Troubleshooting

• Recipe development, pile formation, and monitoring.

• Odor management and pathogen control.

• Troubleshooting common problems: odors, slow decomposition, pests.

• Exercise: Developing a monitoring plan for a composting facility.

Module 5: Compost Quality, Marketing, and Utilization

• Compost maturity and stability testing.

• Compost quality standards and labeling.

• Markets for compost: agriculture, landscaping, erosion control.

• Final Project: Creating an operational and business plan for a community-scale composting facility.