As a result of increasingly strict legislation and material resources running short, Councils have to pay particular emphasis to waste management. Currently Newtownabbey Borough Council offers a Brown Bin collection service in selected areas.

These bins can only be used for the collection of green garden waste. However, a home compost bin can be used to recycle certain types of garden and kitchen wastes. Examples of the types of material that can be placed in the compost bin can be seen in the table below. It is important when using the bin that you achieve the correct balance between "brown" and "green" materials.

Ratio: Brown 25: Green 1

There are 3 aspects that are required to ensure that your compost bin works as efficiently as possible. These are;

Air

As the process of breaking down the material is aerobic, air is required. Carbon rich materials, due to their structure, provide the heap with natural air pockets. It is recommended that material is placed into the compost bin in alternating layers of brown and green material. If more air is required periodically turn poke / agitate the pile.

Water

Moisture makes it easier for the material to decompose. However, too much and the air content will reduce and decomposition will slow / stop due to anaerobic conditions. Moisture in the compost heap should be similar to a wrung out sponge.

Food

The microbes that help in the decomposition process require food in the right quantities. Examples of the type of food required to make compost are given in the table above.

Buy a Home Composter

Newtownabbey Borough Council currently offers compost bins (show below) to residents at a cost of £5. The numbers available are limited and can be requested by phoning 028 9034 0074 or email the Recycling Manager lmayne@newtownabbey.gov.uk.

Related Documents to Download:

Home Composting Fact Sheet (73Kb)

Top of page