Conclusion: BUSTED.
Truth: Modern landfills are packed so tightly, food and other biodegradables don't get the oxygen, light, or microorganisms they need to decompose properly. This results in the increased production of toxic methane gas -- much more than is produced in a compost pile. Some landfills are actually big, sealed storage bins, which make the decomposition of any biodegradable substance impossible once the landfill has been sealed up.
Proper decomposition of biodegradable waste takes place in a compost pile that is regularly turned, keeping a steady flow of oxygen to the decomposing matter.
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Christina S. says:
Good to know, I def. haven't thought about that.
Stephanie P. says:
Sure, it's good to know, but even BETTER to PRACTICE! Here in Chicago, where we are supposedly this great 'green' city, we do not even have a municipal composting program! The laws of our state make it very difficult. The laws need to change and catch up with the people and businesses. We have a green restaurant co-op that buys sustainable, renewable, and biodegradable take out containers, cups and other to-go wares. We have organic restaurants and bakeries that use these products, and there are people like me who frequent these businesses for that very reason! But there is no place to dispose of these as many require composting under 'commercial conditions'. I would love to have a compost pile, as my mom did, but I live in an apartment. I cannot wait for the day to find a compost bin on every street corner next to the recycling bins, and a larger composting pile in every city park!