Claire Forbes checking compost temperature
A lot of people often want to start composting but don’t know where to start. Some common questions people have include: “What kind of equipment do I need?” “Is it hard?” and “How long does it take?”
Over the last few days Sai Kung resident and first-time composter, Janice Baird, invited other families to learn to compost in her backyard.
Janice Baird explaining the difference between different compost tumblers
“I didn’t know where to start and was worried about getting it wrong,” Janice said. “I looked up articles and YouTube videos, but there were about composting in other countries. I couldn’t find any resources on how to start composting in your backyard in Hong Kong.”
Janice and her family decided to try in March this year. They made a few mistakes along the way, but eventually were able to successfully compost their food waste.
Paul Tyson quizzically inspecting the final compost
When asked why she decided to start backyard composting sessions, Janice said: “I wish someone had explained the process a bit more to me in the beginning. So, I put together all the information that I wish a friend could have told me when we started. I also put together a list of lessons we learned along the way.”
Fifteen families from Sai Kung and Clearwater Bay attended the free workshops, which were held outdoors and on Zoom. During the workshops, families learned about the science of composting, equipment, techniques and troubleshooting tips. Often, parents brought their children and sometimes helpers came along too.
Mums and kids feeling the texture of finished compost
“Being in Sai Kung is like being part of a big family,” Janice said. “We can all help and support each other, especially when learning something new. If we work together, we stand a better chance of reducing our waste, lowering our carbon emissions and growing happier gardens.”
You can contact Janice Baird on janicebaird@earthevery.org
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