From johncossham at tiscali.co.uk Tue Jul 1 06:09:43 2008 From: johncossham at tiscali.co.uk (john cossham) Date: Tue, 1 Jul 2008 12:09:43 +0100 Subject: [USCC] Calculating Carbon Dioxide Emissions from Composting References: <48659775.2000900@bouldercompost.com> Message-ID: <009a01c8db6a$f7747540$0200a8c0@Johnsthingy> I do not have an answer to this, but it should be noted that material decomposing aerobically will only release the CO2 it took in as a plant, or the C it took in from it's food, if it's animal material in the composting process. However, if the material decomposes anaerobically, ie it gets waterlogged or remains unturned and the O2 in some parts of the pile gets used up, this pathway will result in methane (CH4) being released which has a global warming activity some 22 times greater than CO2. Some studies have found that ordinary home composting systems do release some methane as they have pockets of low O2 activity, so these issues will have to be taken into consideration when calculating the CO2 emissions or the CO2 equivalent emissions... Complicated but interesting! John in York, UK ----- Original Message ----- From: "Eric Simenson" To: Sent: Saturday, June 28, 2008 2:44 AM Subject: [USCC] Calculating Carbon Dioxide Emissions from Composting > Does anyone have an equation to calculate how much carbon dioxide is > released during composting? I realize it depends on many factors, so > ballpark numbers are just fine. > > Thanks everyone, > Eric Simenson > > Boulder Compost Co. > 720-837-3286 > www.bouldercompost.com > > From alexassoc at earthlink.net Wed Jul 2 07:47:33 2008 From: alexassoc at earthlink.net (alexassoc@earthlink.net) Date: Wed, 2 Jul 2008 08:47:33 -0400 Subject: [USCC] De-packaging Message-ID: <000301c8dc41$cc239c90$646ad5b0$@net> Hello compost World, Has anyone heard of a new de-packaging plant/equipment suited for removing food waste from packaging - as a pre-cursor to composting or AD? Thanks, Ron Ron Alexander R. Alexander Associates, Inc. 1212 Eastham Drive Apex, NC 27502 USA 919-367-8350 919-367-8351 fax alexassoc at earthlink.net www.alexassoc.net From sreil at safelawns.net Tue Jul 1 12:39:42 2008 From: sreil at safelawns.net (Scott Reil) Date: Tue, 1 Jul 2008 13:39:42 -0400 Subject: [USCC] Tire chips In-Reply-To: References: <484834B2.3070503@compostlab.com> Message-ID: <001e01c8dba1$71d03ff0$5570bfd0$@net> I've heard nothing good on rubber breaking down and plenty of bad news... http://www.puyallup.wsu.edu/~Linda%20Chalker-Scott/Horticultural%20Myths_fil es/Myths/Rubber%20mulch.pdf Chemicals from the vulcanization process can include: Sulfur - cross-linking agent Zinc Oxide - activator Zinc Dibutyldithiocarbamate - accelerator Zinc Diethyldithiocarbamate - accelerator Zinc Mercaptobenzothiazole - accelerator Titanium Dioxide - whitening pigment Calcium Carbonate - anti-tack agent Calcium Nitrate - coagulant Corn Starch - donning agent Potassium Hydroxide - pH stabilizer Anti-oxidants, anti-foaming agents, anti-webbing agents, surfactants, color pigments, flavoring compounds, fragrance and other additives used are mixtures of compounds that are proprietary knowledge and rights of the various brand owners and may not be disclosed here. I find the inclusion of carbamates to be particularly notable as they are getting as lot of bad press as pesticides (nerve agents). As noted in the above article, as much as 2% of the tire mass can be zinc, a lot higher than the 4-6 ppm we like to see in soils...not a good idea from where I sit AT ALL... Scott Reil Safe Lawns and Landscapes LLC 70 Highland Park Drive Bloomfield CT 06002 860-243-8733 -----Original Message----- From: compost-bounces at mailman.cloudnet.com [mailto:compost-bounces at mailman.cloudnet.com] On Behalf Of John P Kelly Sent: Monday, June 30, 2008 3:20 PM To: compost at mailman.cloudnet.com Subject: [USCC] Tire chips Composters: I am interested in hearing from composters who have experience with tire chips as an alternative bulking agent. John Kelly New England Organics Director of Product Sales 135 Presumpscot Street, Unit 1 Portland, ME 04103 1-877-4-COMPOST 207-347-3605 207-781-5794 fax 207-650-5010 cell www.earthlifegrows.com From David.Goldstein at ventura.org Tue Jul 1 16:15:46 2008 From: David.Goldstein at ventura.org (David Goldstein) Date: Tue, 01 Jul 2008 14:15:46 -0700 Subject: [USCC] Calculating Carbon Dioxide Emissions from Composting In-Reply-To: <005701c8dac7$45983850$d0c8a8f0$@org> References: <48659775.2000900@bouldercompost.com> <005701c8dac7$45983850$d0c8a8f0$@org> Message-ID: <486A3C11.BDA4.0045.0@ventura.org> Cary, Compost advocates may want to avoid "counting" carbon emissions from decomposition, but that omission does not seem fair. We should judge the climate change impact of composting in comparison to its alternatives. Composting has fewer emissions than mass-burn incineration and may have lower emissions than incineration with energy recovery, unless, perhaps, the energy generated displaces coal-fired power. However, composting may, in some cases, have more carbon emissions than landfilling. In some cases, landfilling can "safely" sequester carbon. Of course, in other cases (such as landfilling food waste, grass, and other organics with high nitrogen, rather than woody material high in carbon), landfilling may result in more climate change gasses. Landfilling, instead of composting, items high in nitrogen can generate more methane than would be captured by methane recovery systems in some landfills, and the climate change effect of methane is over 20 times worse than carbon emissions. Regards, D.G. >>> "Cary Oshins" 06/30/2008 8:37 AM >>> Eric, if the reason for your question stems from concerns over climate change and your carbon footprint, you have to understand that the CO2 released during composting has two sources--the decomposition of the compostable material and the equipment used to move and process the material. The CO2 from decomposition is part of the "short-term carbon cycle", that is, it was captured from the air during photosynthesis and goes back into the air during decomposition, so does not "count" from a carbon footprint perspective. However, the diesel fuel and other energy used and exhausts emitted do count, and will completely depend on the equipment you use and the scale of operation, so any ball park estimate would be meaningless. There will be several new factsheets on composting and global warming on our new website, due to launch in the very near future. Watch for it! Take care, Cary ____________________________________ Cary Oshins Assistant Director of Programs US Composting Council 1010 North 13th St. Allentown, PA 18102 phone: 484-547-1521 fax: 484-274-6779 cary at compostingcouncil.org USCC Main Office: 1 Comac Loop, Suite 14B1 Ronkonkoma, NY 11779 phone: 631-737-4931 fax: 631-737-4939 Join us at the US Composting Council's 17th Annual Conference & Trade Show, January 26-29, 2009 at the Westin Galleria, Houston, TX Register at www.compostingcouncil.org Help support your industry. Become a member today!!! -----Original Message----- From: compost-bounces at mailman.cloudnet.com [mailto:compost-bounces at mailman.cloudnet.com] On Behalf Of Eric Simenson Sent: Friday, June 27, 2008 9:44 PM To: compost at mailman.cloudnet.com Subject: [USCC] Calculating Carbon Dioxide Emissions from Composting Does anyone have an equation to calculate how much carbon dioxide is released during composting? I realize it depends on many factors, so ballpark numbers are just fine. Thanks everyone, Eric Simenson Boulder Compost Co. 720-837-3286 www.bouldercompost.com _______________________________________ Join us at the US Composting Council's 17th Annual Conference & Trade Show January 26-29th, 2009 at the Westin Galleria in Houston, TX. The National forum for those involved in the development and expansion of the composting and organics recycling industry. Conference Highlights, Registration forms, Exhibitor information and Sponsorship Opportunities available at the USCC website: www.compostingcouncil.org or call the USCC at 631.737.4931 ____________________________________________________________________________ __ Compost maillist - compost at mailman.cloudnet.com http://mailman.cloudnet.com/mailman/listinfo/compost _______________________________________ This list is a service provided by the US Composting Council (USCC). (c) Copyright 2004 United States Composting Council - All rights reserved Opinions expressed do not necessarily represent the USCC, the Foundation, or the Board of Directors. Non-members of USCC are encouraged to join the Council through its website at: http://www.compostingcouncil.org/membership.cfm Members posting CC copies to the list and other addresses may have their posting privileges suspended. For discussion list policies and information regarding subscribing, unsubscribing, digest or other options, go to: http://mailman.cloudnet.com/mailman/listinfo/compost For additional help in unsubcribing or to report bugs and problems, send a message to the List Manager at compostlistmanager at compostingcouncil.org _______________________________________ Join us at the US Composting Council's 17th Annual Conference & Trade Show January 26-29th, 2009 at the Westin Galleria in Houston, TX. The National forum for those involved in the development and expansion of the composting and organics recycling industry. Conference Highlights, Registration forms, Exhibitor information and Sponsorship Opportunities available at the USCC website: www.compostingcouncil.org or call the USCC at 631.737.4931 ______________________________________________________________________________ Compost maillist - compost at mailman.cloudnet.com http://mailman.cloudnet.com/mailman/listinfo/compost _______________________________________ This list is a service provided by the US Composting Council (USCC). (c) Copyright 2004 United States Composting Council - All rights reserved Opinions expressed do not necessarily represent the USCC, the Foundation, or the Board of Directors. Non-members of USCC are encouraged to join the Council through its website at: http://www.compostingcouncil.org/membership.cfm Members posting CC copies to the list and other addresses may have their posting privileges suspended. For discussion list policies and information regarding subscribing, unsubscribing, digest or other options, go to: http://mailman.cloudnet.com/mailman/listinfo/compost For additional help in unsubcribing or to report bugs and problems, send a message to the List Manager at compostlistmanager at compostingcouncil.org From david_schellinger at bresnan.net Tue Jul 1 20:39:45 2008 From: david_schellinger at bresnan.net (David Schellinger) Date: Tue, 1 Jul 2008 19:39:45 -0600 Subject: [USCC] Calculating Carbon Dioxide Emissions from Composting In-Reply-To: <48659775.2000900@bouldercompost.com> References: <48659775.2000900@bouldercompost.com> Message-ID: <001101c8dbe4$825034a0$6c589045@alternat310f97> Eric, People tend to sensationalize the extent of the carbon lost during composting, and the fact remains that whether composted and applied to soils, applied directly to soils, or burned for energy, carbon emissions in various forms from organic matter will probably be similar. Typically, organic carbon only constitutes 15% - 46% of the total mass of organic feedstocks. Maximum carbon lost during composting may be 50% of the initial. We might therefore see loss of carbon in various forms as between approximately 7% to 25% of the initial mass. Assuming a 35% initial organic C concentration (say 350g/kg) and a 50% loss of carbon, only 175g/kg would be lost as various forms of volatile carbon. Most of the organic carbon is converted to more stable organic complexes. Assuming all is lost as CO2, 640g of CO2 would be lost per kg of compost. 73% of that weight would be oxygen. Dave Schellinger Phone: (307)655-5818 -----Original Message----- From: Eric Simenson [mailto:eric at bouldercompost.com] Sent: Friday, June 27, 2008 7:44 PM To: compost at mailman.cloudnet.com Subject: [USCC] Calculating Carbon Dioxide Emissions from Composting Does anyone have an equation to calculate how much carbon dioxide is released during composting? I realize it depends on many factors, so ballpark numbers are just fine. Thanks everyone, Eric Simenson Boulder Compost Co. 720-837-3286 www.bouldercompost.com From Rufus.Chaney at ARS.USDA.GOV Wed Jul 2 12:31:55 2008 From: Rufus.Chaney at ARS.USDA.GOV (Chaney, Rufus) Date: Wed, 2 Jul 2008 13:31:55 -0400 Subject: [USCC] Tire chips In-Reply-To: <001e01c8dba1$71d03ff0$5570bfd0$@net> Message-ID: Dear USCC: I have commented before that the Zn added from tire chips is undesireable in composts. In acidic soils, that Zn become plant available over time as the rubber is degraded by microbes. Further, tire chips don't absorb much water from the feedstocks, so they mostly give a surface for the feedstock to spread out on during composting. The chips may last longer than wood chips, but they do degrade over time and Zn enters the compost. Even with biosolids composting with low metal biosolids (Higgens et al., 1986), composting with rubber tire chips doubled compost Zn. In areas with Zn deficiency soils, rubber might be a resource to serve as a low grade Zn fertilizer. Our testing has shown that even ground rubber has have time to be degraded to release the Zn to the soil before it is taken up by plants. So, with the exception of producing a high Zn compost for Zn deficient soils, I cannot recommend use of tire chips for composting anything. A web search will identify many negative opinions about rubber use. I have seen many reports about severe Zn phytotoxicity where tires were used to burn out tree stumps, etc. The Zn does not disappear. Whether the PAH compounds in the rubber are a special danger is arguable, and PAHs are a natural part of most organic resources formed by microbes. Regards, Rufus Chaney Beltsville, MD -----Original Message----- From: compost-bounces at mailman.cloudnet.com [mailto:compost-bounces at mailman.cloudnet.com] On Behalf Of Scott Reil Sent: Tuesday, July 01, 2008 1:40 PM To: 'Compost Discussion List' Subject: Re: [USCC] Tire chips I've heard nothing good on rubber breaking down and plenty of bad news... http://www.puyallup.wsu.edu/~Linda%20Chalker-Scott/Horticultural%20Myths _fil es/Myths/Rubber%20mulch.pdf Chemicals from the vulcanization process can include: Sulfur - cross-linking agent Zinc Oxide - activator Zinc Dibutyldithiocarbamate - accelerator Zinc Diethyldithiocarbamate - accelerator Zinc Mercaptobenzothiazole - accelerator Titanium Dioxide - whitening pigment Calcium Carbonate - anti-tack agent Calcium Nitrate - coagulant Corn Starch - donning agent Potassium Hydroxide - pH stabilizer Anti-oxidants, anti-foaming agents, anti-webbing agents, surfactants, color pigments, flavoring compounds, fragrance and other additives used are mixtures of compounds that are proprietary knowledge and rights of the various brand owners and may not be disclosed here. I find the inclusion of carbamates to be particularly notable as they are getting as lot of bad press as pesticides (nerve agents). As noted in the above article, as much as 2% of the tire mass can be zinc, a lot higher than the 4-6 ppm we like to see in soils...not a good idea from where I sit AT ALL... Scott Reil Safe Lawns and Landscapes LLC 70 Highland Park Drive Bloomfield CT 06002 860-243-8733 -----Original Message----- From: compost-bounces at mailman.cloudnet.com [mailto:compost-bounces at mailman.cloudnet.com] On Behalf Of John P Kelly Sent: Monday, June 30, 2008 3:20 PM To: compost at mailman.cloudnet.com Subject: [USCC] Tire chips Composters: I am interested in hearing from composters who have experience with tire chips as an alternative bulking agent. John Kelly New England Organics Director of Product Sales 135 Presumpscot Street, Unit 1 Portland, ME 04103 1-877-4-COMPOST 207-347-3605 207-781-5794 fax 207-650-5010 cell www.earthlifegrows.com _______________________________________ Join us at the US Composting Council's 17th Annual Conference & Trade Show January 26-29th, 2009 at the Westin Galleria in Houston, TX. The National forum for those involved in the development and expansion of the composting and organics recycling industry. Conference Highlights, Registration forms, Exhibitor information and Sponsorship Opportunities available at the USCC website: www.compostingcouncil.org or call the USCC at 631.737.4931 ________________________________________________________________________ ______ Compost maillist - compost at mailman.cloudnet.com http://mailman.cloudnet.com/mailman/listinfo/compost _______________________________________ This list is a service provided by the US Composting Council (USCC). (c) Copyright 2004 United States Composting Council - All rights reserved Opinions expressed do not necessarily represent the USCC, the Foundation, or the Board of Directors. Non-members of USCC are encouraged to join the Council through its website at: http://www.compostingcouncil.org/membership.cfm Members posting CC copies to the list and other addresses may have their posting privileges suspended. For discussion list policies and information regarding subscribing, unsubscribing, digest or other options, go to: http://mailman.cloudnet.com/mailman/listinfo/compost For additional help in unsubcribing or to report bugs and problems, send a message to the List Manager at compostlistmanager at compostingcouncil.org From dmhill at aol.com Wed Jul 2 09:31:55 2008 From: dmhill at aol.com (dmhill@aol.com) Date: Wed, 02 Jul 2008 10:31:55 -0400 Subject: [USCC] Tire chips In-Reply-To: Message-ID: <8CAAA6782F37CD5-B58-17F1@webmail-me13.sysops.aol.com> In approximately 1995/1996 Maryland Evironmenta Service conducted and an experiment using tire chip as a bulking agent in the composting process. The test was headed by Mr. Rhody Holthause. The results of the testing may still be available by contacting either Ann Bleinberger or Richard Kelley at Maryland Environmental Service: Maryland Environmental Service 259 Najoles Road Millersville, MD 21108 Phone: (410) 729-8200 (410) 729-8220 FAX 1-800-473-2925 David Hill CycleLogic 4613 Roxbury Dr. Bethesda, MD 20814 Phone/FAX (301) 493-5180 -----Original Message----- From: John P Kelly To: compost at mailman.cloudnet.com Sent: Mon, 30 Jun 2008 3:19 pm Subject: [USCC] Tire chips Composters: I am interested in hearing from composters who have experience with tire chips as an alternative bulking agent. John Kelly New England Organics Director of Product Sales 135 Presumpscot Street, Unit 1 Portland, ME 04103 1-877-4-COMPOST 207-347-3605 207-781-5794 fax 207-650-5010 cell www.earthlifegrows.com _______________________________________ Join us at the US Composting Council's 17th Annual Conference & Trade Show January 26-29th, 2009 at the Westin Galleria in Houston, TX. The National forum for those involved in the development and expansion of the composting and organics recycling industry. Conference Highlights, Registration forms, Exhibitor information and Sponsorship Opportunities available at the USCC website: www.compostingcouncil.org or call the USCC at 631.737.4931 ______________________________________________________________________________ Compost maillist - compost at mailman.cloudnet.com http://mailman.cloudnet.com/mailman/listinfo/compost _______________________________________ This list is a service provided by the US Composting Council (USCC). (c) Copyright 2004 United States Composting Council - All rights reserved Opinions expressed do not necessarily represent the USCC, the Foundation, or the Board of Directors. Non-members of USCC are encouraged to join the Council through its website at: http://www.compostingcouncil.org/membership.cfm Members posting CC copies to the list and other addresses may have their posting privileges suspended. For discussion list policies and information regarding subscribing, unsubscribing, digest or other options, go to: http://mailman.cloudnet.com/mailman/listinfo/compost For additional help in unsubcribing or to report bugs and problems, send a message to the List Manager at compostlistmanager at compostingcouncil.org [Image Removed] From maureen.reilly at sympatico.ca Wed Jul 2 15:11:46 2008 From: maureen.reilly at sympatico.ca (Maureen Reilly) Date: Wed, 02 Jul 2008 16:11:46 -0400 Subject: [USCC] Using alkaline stabilized N-Viro in compost In-Reply-To: <8CAAA6782F37CD5-B58-17F1@webmail-me13.sysops.aol.com> Message-ID: I just heard of a plan to use sewage sludge (dried Class A sewage sludge that has been mixed 50-50 with cement kiln dust) in a composting operation. Would the high alkaline material (pH 11 or 12) be a problem in the active compost? Maureen Reilly Canada From craigcoker at cox.net Thu Jul 3 08:35:30 2008 From: craigcoker at cox.net (Craig Coker) Date: Thu, 3 Jul 2008 09:35:30 -0400 Subject: [USCC] Using alkaline stabilized N-Viro in compost In-Reply-To: References: <8CAAA6782F37CD5-B58-17F1@webmail-me13.sysops.aol.com> Message-ID: <000d01c8dd11$a93d0470$6400a8c0@LAPTOP> Maureen: I believe it would. Previous attempts to compost alkaline-stabilized biosolids have been complicated by the high pH (if it kills pathogens, it kills beneficial microorganisms) and by the high levels of volatilized ammonia. Craig Craig Coker Coker Composting & Consulting 3331 Glade Creek Blvd., Ste. 7 Roanoke, VA 24012 Tel.: (540) 904-2698 Fax: (540) 904-6732 Cell: (540) 874-5168 Email: craigcoker at cox.net Web: www.cokercompost.com -----Original Message----- From: compost-bounces at mailman.cloudnet.com [mailto:compost-bounces at mailman.cloudnet.com] On Behalf Of Maureen Reilly Sent: Wednesday, July 02, 2008 4:12 PM To: compost at mailman.cloudnet.com Subject: [USCC] Using alkaline stabilized N-Viro in compost I just heard of a plan to use sewage sludge (dried Class A sewage sludge that has been mixed 50-50 with cement kiln dust) in a composting operation. Would the high alkaline material (pH 11 or 12) be a problem in the active compost? Maureen Reilly Canada _______________________________________ Join us at the US Composting Council's 17th Annual Conference & Trade Show January 26-29th, 2009 at the Westin Galleria in Houston, TX. The National forum for those involved in the development and expansion of the composting and organics recycling industry. Conference Highlights, Registration forms, Exhibitor information and Sponsorship Opportunities available at the USCC website: www.compostingcouncil.org or call the USCC at 631.737.4931 ____________________________________________________________________________ __ Compost maillist - compost at mailman.cloudnet.com http://mailman.cloudnet.com/mailman/listinfo/compost _______________________________________ This list is a service provided by the US Composting Council (USCC). (c) Copyright 2004 United States Composting Council - All rights reserved Opinions expressed do not necessarily represent the USCC, the Foundation, or the Board of Directors. Non-members of USCC are encouraged to join the Council through its website at: http://www.compostingcouncil.org/membership.cfm Members posting CC copies to the list and other addresses may have their posting privileges suspended. For discussion list policies and information regarding subscribing, unsubscribing, digest or other options, go to: http://mailman.cloudnet.com/mailman/listinfo/compost For additional help in unsubcribing or to report bugs and problems, send a message to the List Manager at compostlistmanager at compostingcouncil.org From hodgesenviro at sbcglobal.net Thu Jul 3 09:55:41 2008 From: hodgesenviro at sbcglobal.net (Dan Hodges) Date: Thu, 3 Jul 2008 09:55:41 -0500 Subject: [USCC] Using alkaline stabilized N-Viro in compost References: Message-ID: <06db01c8dd1c$dd9bfef0$4101a8c0@hodges101b0acb> We attempted to compost lime stabilized, not cement kiln dust, but certainly similar pH characteristics. The composting process does not deal very well with pH's out of the 6 - 8 range. When the pH returns to those values then the composting process will begin to function. Danny Hodges Hodges Environmental ----- Original Message ----- From: "Maureen Reilly" To: Sent: Wednesday, July 02, 2008 3:11 PM Subject: [USCC] Using alkaline stabilized N-Viro in compost > > I just heard of a plan to use sewage sludge (dried Class A sewage sludge > that has been mixed 50-50 with cement kiln dust) in a composting > operation. > > Would the high alkaline material (pH 11 or 12) be a problem in the active > compost? > > Maureen Reilly > Canada > > > _______________________________________ > Join us at the US Composting Council's 17th Annual Conference & Trade Show > January 26-29th, 2009 at the Westin Galleria in Houston, TX. > The National forum for those involved in the development and expansion of > the composting and organics recycling industry. > Conference Highlights, Registration forms, Exhibitor information and > Sponsorship Opportunities available at the USCC website: > www.compostingcouncil.org or call the USCC at 631.737.4931 > ______________________________________________________________________________ > Compost maillist - compost at mailman.cloudnet.com > http://mailman.cloudnet.com/mailman/listinfo/compost > _______________________________________ > This list is a service provided by the US Composting Council (USCC). > (c) Copyright 2004 United States Composting Council - All rights reserved > > Opinions expressed do not necessarily represent the USCC, the Foundation, > or the Board of Directors. > > Non-members of USCC are encouraged to join the Council through its website > at: http://www.compostingcouncil.org/membership.cfm > > Members posting CC copies to the list and other addresses may have their > posting privileges suspended. For discussion list policies and information > regarding subscribing, unsubscribing, digest or other options, go to: > http://mailman.cloudnet.com/mailman/listinfo/compost > > For additional help in unsubcribing or to report bugs and problems, send a > message to the List Manager at compostlistmanager at compostingcouncil.org > From dmhill at aol.com Fri Jul 4 09:21:49 2008 From: dmhill at aol.com (dmhill@aol.com) Date: Fri, 04 Jul 2008 10:21:49 -0400 Subject: [USCC] Using alkaline stabilized N-Viro in compost In-Reply-To: Message-ID: <8CAABF86E59A7E3-C68-2E19@webmail-md07.sysops.aol.com> Maureen: Composting high pH? organics, including lime stabilized biosolids comes with its own unique set of challenges. The biosolids composted at WSSC's Site II were lime stabilized prior to composting. The composting process worked well however, an inordinate amount of money was spent on odor control management practices and technology. I am wondering why someone would duplicate a Class A process by composting finished N-Viro product? Is it possible that the the N-Viro product will be blended with the finished compost, thereby enhancing the overall nutrient value, adding lime and mitigating odor associated with the N-Viro product? David Hill CycleLogic www.mycyclelogic.com -----Original Message----- From: Maureen Reilly To: compost at mailman.cloudnet.com Sent: Wed, 2 Jul 2008 4:11 pm Subject: [USCC] Using alkaline stabilized N-Viro in compost I just heard of a plan to use sewage sludge (dried Class A sewage sludge that has been mixed 50-50 with cement kiln dust) in a composting operation. Would the high alkaline material (pH 11 or 12) be a problem in the active compost? Maureen Reilly Canada _______________________________________ Join us at the US Composting Council's 17th Annual Conference & Trade Show January 26-29th, 2009 at the Westin Galleria in Houston, TX. The National forum for those involved in the development and expansion of the composting and organics recycling industry. Conference Highlights, Registration forms, Exhibitor information and Sponsorship Opportunities available at the USCC website: www.compostingcouncil.org or call the USCC at 631.737.4931 ______________________________________________________________________________ Compost maillist - compost at mailman.cloudnet.com http://mailman.cloudnet.com/mailman/listinfo/compost _______________________________________ This list is a service provided by the US Composting Council (USCC). (c) Copyright 2004 United States Composting Council - All rights reserved Opinions expressed do not necessarily represent the USCC, the Foundation, or the Board of Directors. Non-members of USCC are encouraged to join the Council through its website at: http://www.compostingcouncil.org/membership.cfm Members posting CC copies to the list and other addresses may have their posting privileges suspended. For discussion list policies and information regarding subscribing, unsubscribing, digest or other options, go to: http://mailman.cloudnet.com/mailman/listinfo/compost For additional help in unsubcribing or to report bugs and problems, send a message to the List Manager at compostlistmanager at compostingcouncil.org From tonybreton at gmail.com Fri Jul 4 07:32:23 2008 From: tonybreton at gmail.com (Tony Breton) Date: Fri, 4 Jul 2008 13:32:23 +0100 Subject: [USCC] De-packaging In-Reply-To: <000301c8dc41$cc239c90$646ad5b0$@net> References: <000301c8dc41$cc239c90$646ad5b0$@net> Message-ID: <003e01c8ddd2$03777450$0301a8c0@tbclaptop> Hi Ron I don't think it's new but at a TCA / HotRot / Bekon event yesterday there was a presentation by Atritor of their turbo-separator which they claimed had a 90-99% depackaging efficiency, I think the Biogen plant in Bedford might be using one of these see www.turboseparator.com Best regards Tony Tony Breton Market Developer - UK Source Separation Novamont S.p.A. - European Inventor of the Year 2007 c/o 13 Barnwell Street Kettering NN16 0JD UK T: +44 (0) 7876 200934 F: +44 (0) 800 0664525 E: tony.breton at novamont.com W: www.materbi.com This E-mail is confidential, may be legally privileged and is for the intended recipient only. Access, disclosure, copying, distribution or reliance on any of it by anyone else is prohibited and may be a criminal offence. Please delete if obtained in error and E-mail confirmation to the sender. No representation is made that this email is free of viruses. Virus scanning is recommended and is the responsibility of the recipient. -----Original Message----- From: alexassoc at earthlink.net [mailto:alexassoc at earthlink.net] Sent: 02 July 2008 13:48 To: compostlist Subject: [USCC] De-packaging Hello compost World, Has anyone heard of a new de-packaging plant/equipment suited for removing food waste from packaging - as a pre-cursor to composting or AD? Thanks, Ron Ron Alexander R. Alexander Associates, Inc. 1212 Eastham Drive Apex, NC 27502 USA 919-367-8350 919-367-8351 fax alexassoc at earthlink.net www.alexassoc.net From CAVM at aol.com Tue Jul 8 12:53:06 2008 From: CAVM at aol.com (CAVM@aol.com) Date: Tue, 8 Jul 2008 13:53:06 EDT Subject: [USCC] Lime stabilized compost Message-ID: I am unaware of any successful marketing of N-Viro compost to retail uses or even industrial or agricultural uses. The locations I am aware of who use lime stabilization send it for landfill cover. Neal Van Milligen I am wondering why someone would duplicate a Class A process by composting finished N-Viro product? **************Gas prices getting you down? Search AOL Autos for fuel-efficient used cars. (http://autos.aol.com/used?ncid=aolaut00050000000007) From ethan at energycollective.com Wed Jul 9 07:19:49 2008 From: ethan at energycollective.com (Ethan Rosch) Date: Wed, 9 Jul 2008 08:19:49 -0400 Subject: [USCC] EN13432 vs. ASTM D6400 Message-ID: <74348E98-805B-4700-9EFE-6CD3C9BB0E26@energycollective.com> Hello Compost world. Quick question on EN13432 vs. ASTM D6400. Does the EU certificate EN13432 for compostable materials meet and/or exceed the BPI ASTM D6400? Do composting facilities in the US generally accept materials that have the EN13432 certification? thank you, Ethan _________________________ Ethan Rosch Energy Collective Tel. 212-674-7469 Fax: 360-343-8920 Mob: 917-664-7206 ethan at energycollective.com www.energycollective.com From Michele.Young at sanjoseca.gov Tue Jul 15 19:05:59 2008 From: Michele.Young at sanjoseca.gov (Young, Michele) Date: Tue, 15 Jul 2008 17:05:59 -0700 Subject: [USCC] School Lunch composting Message-ID: <4B7DBB32B8E0254081660CC49C2B7AFAAF2A14@ex08.sjcity.net> Greetings to all, The City of San Jose is rolling out an 8 school collection and offsite composting pilot for school lunch waste, and we are looking for tools to help us in analysis of the pilot project. We would be interested in contacts at schools, reports, websites, and analysis of successes (or challenges). We thank you in advance for any leads you can provide us. Cheers Michele Young Turn Over an Old Leaf - Compost! Michele Young City of San Jose Environmental Services Department 200 E. Santa Clara St. Tower 10 San Jose, CA 95113 Phone: (408) 975-2519 FAX: (408) 292-6212 From gbrec at comcast.net Tue Jul 15 17:09:32 2008 From: gbrec at comcast.net (Gary Bright) Date: Tue, 15 Jul 2008 18:09:32 -0400 Subject: [USCC] Biofilter media Message-ID: <20080715220928.30F06736603@mx1.cloudnet.com> I seek some guidance in learning about the best various combinations of media to use in a biofilter. Any information to indicate best material, thickness, maximum layers, moisture monitoring devices available (at responsible prices) , etc. Gary. From alh54 at cornell.edu Wed Jul 16 09:37:30 2008 From: alh54 at cornell.edu (Allison L H Jack) Date: Wed, 16 Jul 2008 10:37:30 -0400 Subject: [USCC] antibiotic resistant microbes in livestock manure-compost Message-ID: <6.2.1.2.2.20080716103423.01db3a98@postoffice8.mail.cornell.edu> Hi everyone, I wanted to make a few comments on this older thread from before the July 4th holiday. Dr. Chaney mentioned that the human pathogens present in livestock manures are not thermophiles, and would be killed during composting (full posting at the end of this message). This is true, but the main concept behind antibiotic resistance is that bacteria can transfer this resistance between completely unrelated species via plasmids. The following is a possible scenario. An E. coli bacterium living in a cow gut acquires resistance to the sub-therapeutic antibiotics administered to the cow. This bacterium is shed from the gut and ends up in the manure. The antibiotic resistance gene is carried on a mobile plasmid (small circular extra-chromosomal DNA) that is transferred to 3 totally different bacterial species. If one of these species is a thermophile, it is possible that it could survive the composting process and transfer the plasmid to mesophilic bacteria in the finished compost and in the soil. Many human pathogens, especially opportunistic ones, are soil dwellers, hence the widespread concern over this issue of multi drug resistant bacteria. The American Society for Microbiology has a whole section of their website devoted to the issue of antibiotic resistance due to medical and agricultural use of antibiotics. [http://www.asm.org/Policy/index.asp?bid=531]. The transfer of antibiotic resistance genes from bacteria in manure to bacteria in soil is well documented (see a selection of literature below [1-2]), but little is known about how manure management affects this process. There is growing evidence that intensively managing manure (i.e. composting) can reduce the spread of antibiotic resistance genes in soil bacterial populations [3]. I would argue that more studies of this kind need to be done. I believe documenting that composting could partially ameliorate this emerging environmental problem would be a benefit to the industry. But of course, without the involvement and support of the entire composting community, this field of research will continue to focus on raw manure and not take a critical look at the potential benefits of the composting process. Scientific knowledge is a moving target, and I would argue that successful industries need to be flexible and respond rapidly to new information. For example, when McDonald's executives learned about the emerging issue of antibiotic resistant microbes, they very rapidly banned the use of sub-therapeutic antibiotics for all of their meat suppliers worldwide [www.mcdonalds.com/corp/values/purchasing/antibiotics/global_policy.html]. The 503 rules were researched and written decades before horizontal gene transfer was documented in soil bacterial communities. Environmental microbiology is one of the fastest growing fields of science right now due to the new molecular tools at our disposal. Which news story would you like to see first; "Compost can contain antibiotic resistant microbes, be afraid!" or "Composting can help reduce the presence of antibiotic resistant microbes"? I hope the industry chooses to be proactive and collaborate with scientists working on this issue so that we can all better understand the effect of composting on the persistence of antibiotic residues and antibiotic resistance genes in manures. Dr. Chaney's point on endocrine disrupting compounds in personal care products is a good one. Many people, myself included, chose not to use products that contain these compounds. There's an extensive searchable database run by the Environmental Working Group where you can research the ingredients in these products (most have which have been banned in Europe) [http://www.cosmeticsdatabase.com/index.php?nothanks=1]. Adverse human health effects are one issue, but this is an environmental issue as well. Fish can't choose which deodorant they're exposed to! Endocrine disrupting compounds from sewage effluent have a feminization effect on fish at very low concentrations. Feminization means that male fish can't develop properly and a population can shift to almost entirely females, or sterile intermediates which can cause the whole population to crash. There's an excellent PNAS paper on this subject that's available online [4]. I believe this will be one of the largest environmental stories of our generation behind climate change, and it will definitely affect the biosolids composting industry. Again, this was not a documented issue when the 503 rules were developed. I would argue that the industry needs to decide on adopting a proactive or reactive response to these emerging issues in manure management. -Allison Jack Cornell University [1] Title: Short-term effects of amoxicillin on bacterial communities in manured soil Author(s): Binh CTT, Heuer H, Gomes NCM, et al. Source: FEMS MICROBIOLOGY ECOLOGY Volume: 62 Issue: 3 Pages: 290-302 Published: DEC 2007 Abstract: Antibiotic-resistant bacteria, nutrients and antibiotics that enter the soil by means of manure may enhance the proportion of bacteria displaying antibiotic resistance among soil bacteria and may affect bacterial community structure and function. To investigate the effect of manure and amoxicillin added to manure on soil bacterial communities, microcosm experiments were performed with two soil types and the following treatments: (1) nontreated, (2) manure-treated, (3) treated with manure supplemented with 10 mg amoxicillin kg(-1) soil and (4) treated with manure supplemented with 100 mg amoxicillin kg(-1) soil, with four replicates per treatment. Manure significantly increased the total CFU count and the amoxicillin-resistant CFU count of both soil types. However, only the soil with a history of manure treatment showed a significant increase in the relative number of amoxicillin-resistant bacteria as a result of amoxicillin amendment. The majority of plasmids exogenously isolated from soil originated from soil treated with amoxicillin-supplemented manure. All 16 characterized plasmids carried the bla-TEM gene, and 10 of them belonged to the IncN group. The bla-TEM gene was detected in DNA directly extracted from soil by dot-blot hybridization of PCR amplicons and showed an increased abundance in soil samples treated with manure. Molecular fingerprint analysis of 16S rRNA gene fragments amplified from soil DNA revealed significant effects of manure and amoxicillin on the bacterial community of both soils. [2] Title: The effects of subtherapeutic antibiotic use in farm animals on the proliferation and persistence of antibiotic resistance among soil bacteria Author(s): Ghosh S, LaPara TM Source: ISME JOURNAL Volume: 1 Issue: 3 Pages: 191-203 Published: JUL 2007 Abstract: The use of antibiotics at subtherapeutic concentrations for agricultural applications is believed to be an important factor in the proliferation of antibiotic- resistant bacteria. The goal of this study was to determine if the application of manure onto agricultural land would result in the proliferation of antibiotic resistance among soil bacteria. Chlortetracycline- resistant bacteria were enumerated and characterized from soils exposed to the manure of animals fed subtherapeutic concentrations of antibiotics and compared to the chlortetracycline- resistant bacteria from soils at farms with restricted antibiotic use ( dairy farms) and from non- agricultural soils. No significant differences were observed at nine different study sites with respect to the numbers and types of cultivated chlortetracycline- resistant bacteria. Genes encoding for tetracycline resistance were rarely detected in the resistant bacteria from these sites. In contrast, soils collected from a tenth farm, which allowed manure to indiscriminately accumulate outside the animal pen, had significantly higher chlortetracycline- resistance levels. These resistant bacteria frequently harbored one of 14 different genes encoding for tetracycline resistance, many of which ( especially tet( A) and tet( L)) were detected in numerous different bacterial species. Subsequent bacterial enumerations at this site, following the cessation of farming activity, suggested that this farm remained a hotspot for antibiotic resistance. In conclusion, we speculate that excessive application of animal manure leads to the spread of resistance to soil bacteria ( potentially by lateral gene transfer), which then serve as persistent reservoir of antibiotic resistance. [3] Title: Response of antibiotics and resistance genes to high-intensity and low-intensity manure management Author(s): Storteboom HN, Kim SC, Doesken KC, et al. Source: JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY Volume: 36 Issue: 6 Pages: 1695-1703 Published: NOV-DEC 2007 Abstract: This purpose of thid study was to determine the response of antibiotics and antibiotic resistance genes (ARG) to manure management. A pilor field study was conducted using horse manure containing no antibiotics, into which chlorretracycline (CTC), tylosin (TYL), and monensin (MON) were spiked and compared to unspiked controls. Subsequently, a large-scale field study was conducted comparing manure from a dairy with minimal use of antibiotics and a feedlot with regular subtherapeutic use of antibiotics. The manures were subjected tp high-intensity management (HIM) (amending watering, and turning) and low-intensity management (LIM) (no amending, watering, or turning) and were monitereed for antibiotic concentrations and levels of tetracycline ARG [tet(W) and tet(O)] using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. All three antibiotics in the pilot study disipated more rapidly in HIM manure, with half-lives ranging from 4 to 15 d, compared to LIM manure, with half-lives ranging from 8 to 30 d. Levels of tet(W) were significantly higher after 141 d of treatment, but levels of tet(O) were significantly lower in all treatments. In the large-scale study, the feedlot manure had higher initial concentrations than the dairy manure of tetracycline (TC), oxytetracycline (OTC), and CTC as well as tet(W) and tet(O). Tetracycline and OTC dissipated more rapidly in HIM manure, with half-lives ranging from 7 to 31 d. After 6 mo of treatment, tet(W) and tet(O) decreased significantly in feedlot manure, whereas dairy manure required only 4 mo of treatment for similar results. [4] Title: Collapse of a fish population after exposure to a synthetic estrogen Author(s): Kidd KA, Blanchfield PJ, Mills KH, et al. Source: PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL ACADEMY OF SCIENCES OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA Volume: 104 Issue: 21 Pages: 8897-8901 Published: MAY 22 2007 Absract: Municipal wastewaters are a complex mixture containing estrogens and estrogen mimics that are known to affect the reproductive health of wild fishes. Male fishes downstream of some wastewater outfalls produce vitellogenin (VTG) (a protein normally synthesized by females during oocyte maturation) and early-stage eggs in their testes, and this feminization has been attributed to the presence of estrogenic substances such as natural estrogens [estrone or 17 -estradiol (E2)], the synthetic estrogen used in birth-control pills [17 -ethynylestradiol (EE2)], or weaker estrogen mimics such as nonylphenol in the water. Despite widespread evidence that male fishes are being feminized, it is not known whether these low-level, chronic exposures adversely impact the sustainability of wild populations. We conducted a 7-year, whole-lake experiment at the Experimental Lakes Area (ELA) in northwestern Ontario, Canada, and showed that chronic exposure of fathead minnow (Pimephales promelas) to low concentrations (5?6 ng?L 1) of the potent 17 -ethynylestradiol led to feminization of males through the production of vitellogenin mRNA and protein, impacts on gonadal development as evidenced by intersex in males and altered oogenesis in females, and, ultimately, a near extinction of this species from the lake. Our observations demonstrate that the concentrations of estrogens and their mimics observed in freshwaters can impact the sustainability of wild fish populations. PNAS is open access, read the full article here: http://www.pnas.org/content/104/21/8897 Allison Jack Cornell University ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Dear USCC: I believe some perspective is needed following some of the comments that have come from the original question about destruction of antibiotics during composting. It is clear that many antibiotics are readily biodegraded during either anaerobic digestion or composting of manure and biosolids. But not all are so rapidly biodegraded. Just as with herbicides and pesticides; some are easily biodegraded and others not. The unexpected residue of the herbicide clopyralid discovered several years ago required changes in registration so that it would not be used for home weed control and then contaminate home composts or yard-debris composts that are increasingly important to North American cities. Mr. McGowan reminded us of some of this, but then over-stated the reality of pathogen destruction by composting. Yes, there may be some antibiotic resistant microbes in livestock and human wastes, but these are human pathogens that are readily killed by the temperatures required for effective composting. Of course, not all composting is conducted to comply with the 503 requirements, but increasingly that has become the management goal for the composting industry which needs to show they have killed animal and plant pathogens by the combination of temperature and time. I wanted to remind us all again that toxic chemicals are present in all the plants we eat. Bruce Ames (of Ames test fame) has evaluated toxicity and mutagenicity of chemicals in foods and found that 99.98% of all pesticicds that are present in foods are the natural pesticides made in plants to prevent microbial infection or reduce insect feeding on the plant in nature. Residues of synthetic pesticides are miniscule in comparison. I note this information because some who communicate here seem to think that only industrial chemicals are dangerous. These natural chemicals include some which are complex enough that biodegradation is slower than for more metabolic compounds in plants. And others have made a big deal about possible residues of antibiotics from personal care products in biosolids and biosolids composts. They seem to forget that the highest exposure of humans to these chemicals is to the materials in the products as they use them in their homes. And the selection of antibiotic resistant microbes is much greater in the home where such materials are used than due to the low concentrations present in biosolids or manure. Similarly for other chemicals in personal care products. Just hoping to help us find a balanced perspective on these issues that fairly considers the value of composting and of compost products. Regards, Rufus Chaney Beltsville, MD ************************************************************************************** Allison L H Jack Graduate Student Department of Plant Pathology and Plant-Microbe Biology http://pppmb.cals.cornell.edu Cornell University 335 Plant Science Ithaca, NY 14850 607.273.5762 ************************************************************************************* "...Advancing a productive and sustainable agriculture" from the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences mission statement From djborder at msn.com Tue Jul 15 09:36:38 2008 From: djborder at msn.com (David Border) Date: Tue, 15 Jul 2008 15:36:38 +0100 Subject: [USCC] Composting waste chocolate Message-ID: Hi: Does anyone have any experience of composting large quantities of waste chocolate? Regards, David Border DBCC PO Box 42 St Ives Cambs. PE28 5JX UK From wfbr17 at woodsend.org Wed Jul 16 09:44:02 2008 From: wfbr17 at woodsend.org (Will Brinton) Date: Wed, 16 Jul 2008 10:44:02 -0400 Subject: [USCC] Biodegradabiloty tests In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: <487E0932.7020705@woodsend.org> Dear Etan et al. Our laboratory performs various ASTM, ISO and EN methods for aerobic (and anaerobic) biodegradability. My understanding is that for all practical and certification purposes the tests are synonymous. In fact many USA approved products have been certified-tested in Europe under ISO 14855 / EN 13432, considered equivalent to ASTM D6400. We prepared a listing of test methods and their equivalents available as a free download at: http://www.woodsend.org/pdf-files/DIN-Certco-list.pdf Thank you William Brinton Woods End Laboratories inc. > ------------------------------------------------------------------------ > > Today's Topics: > > 1. EN13432 vs. ASTM D6400 (Ethan Rosch) > > > ------------------------------------------------------------------------ > > Subject: > [USCC] EN13432 vs. ASTM D6400 > From: > Ethan Rosch > Date: > Wed, 9 Jul 2008 08:19:49 -0400 > To: > compost at mailman.cloudnet.com > > To: > compost at mailman.cloudnet.com > > > Hello Compost world. > > Quick question on EN13432 vs. ASTM D6400. > > Does the EU certificate EN13432 for compostable materials meet and/or > exceed the BPI ASTM D6400? > > Do composting facilities in the US generally accept materials that > have the EN13432 certification? > > thank you, > Ethan > _________________________ > Ethan Rosch > Energy Collective > Tel. 212-674-7469 > Fax: 360-343-8920 > Mob: 917-664-7206 > ethan at energycollective.com > www.energycollective.com > > From dpw180 at co.santa-cruz.ca.us Wed Jul 16 11:57:38 2008 From: dpw180 at co.santa-cruz.ca.us (Dan De Grassi) Date: Wed, 16 Jul 2008 09:57:38 -0700 Subject: [USCC] School Lunch composting Message-ID: <6469737A542FAD4B9F7442DFE725FB230552DFCD@sczex01.co.santa-cruz.ca.us> Hi Michele, I'm sure you have, but if you haven't, talk to Karen about the materials we've put together for our Waste Free Schools program. Best regards, Dan -----Original Message----- From: compost-bounces at mailman.cloudnet.com [mailto:compost-bounces at mailman.cloudnet.com] On Behalf Of Young, Michele Sent: Tuesday, July 15, 2008 5:06 PM To: 'Compost Discussion List' Subject: [USCC] School Lunch composting Greetings to all, The City of San Jose is rolling out an 8 school collection and offsite composting pilot for school lunch waste, and we are looking for tools to help us in analysis of the pilot project. We would be interested in contacts at schools, reports, websites, and analysis of successes (or challenges). We thank you in advance for any leads you can provide us. Cheers Michele Young Turn Over an Old Leaf - Compost! Michele Young City of San Jose Environmental Services Department 200 E. Santa Clara St. Tower 10 San Jose, CA 95113 Phone: (408) 975-2519 FAX: (408) 292-6212 _______________________________________ Join us at the US Composting Council's 17th Annual Conference & Trade Show January 26-29th, 2009 at the Westin Galleria in Houston, TX. The National forum for those involved in the development and expansion of the composting and organics recycling industry. Conference Highlights, Registration forms, Exhibitor information and Sponsorship Opportunities available at the USCC website: www.compostingcouncil.org or call the USCC at 631.737.4931 ________________________________________________________________________ ______ Compost maillist - compost at mailman.cloudnet.com http://mailman.cloudnet.com/mailman/listinfo/compost _______________________________________ This list is a service provided by the US Composting Council (USCC). (c) Copyright 2004 United States Composting Council - All rights reserved Opinions expressed do not necessarily represent the USCC, the Foundation, or the Board of Directors. Non-members of USCC are encouraged to join the Council through its website at: http://www.compostingcouncil.org/membership.cfm Members posting CC copies to the list and other addresses may have their posting privileges suspended. For discussion list policies and information regarding subscribing, unsubscribing, digest or other options, go to: http://mailman.cloudnet.com/mailman/listinfo/compost For additional help in unsubcribing or to report bugs and problems, send a message to the List Manager at compostlistmanager at compostingcouncil.org From Sherrianj at plano.gov Thu Jul 17 17:16:47 2008 From: Sherrianj at plano.gov (Sherrian Jones) Date: Thu, 17 Jul 2008 17:16:47 -0500 Subject: [USCC] School Lunch composting In-Reply-To: <4B7DBB32B8E0254081660CC49C2B7AFAAF2A14@ex08.sjcity.net> Message-ID: <608A148346033945A88A2FEFC8B8B01408C02D20@ISMB05.city.plano.gov> Michele, City of Plano has long had a school lunch recycling program. I am sending your request to Christopher Day manager of our recycling program. You may reach him directly : christopherd at plano.gov He will have much valuable info to help you with this very worthwhile endeavor! Good luck, Sherrian Jones Texas Pure Products City of Plano Division Manager 972-742-0413 -----Original Message----- From: Young, Michele [mailto:Michele.Young at sanjoseca.gov] Sent: Tuesday, July 15, 2008 7:06 PM To: 'Compost Discussion List' Subject: [USCC] School Lunch composting Greetings to all, The City of San Jose is rolling out an 8 school collection and offsite composting pilot for school lunch waste, and we are looking for tools to help us in analysis of the pilot project. We would be interested in contacts at schools, reports, websites, and analysis of successes (or challenges). We thank you in advance for any leads you can provide us. Cheers Michele Young Turn Over an Old Leaf - Compost! Michele Young City of San Jose Environmental Services Department 200 E. Santa Clara St. Tower 10 San Jose, CA 95113 Phone: (408) 975-2519 FAX: (408) 292-6212 From john at jfconnolly.com Thu Jul 17 18:35:00 2008 From: john at jfconnolly.com (John F. Connolly) Date: Thu, 17 Jul 2008 19:35:00 -0400 Subject: [USCC] Potential methane production - commercial food waste Message-ID: <000301c8e865$bb3b3660$6401a8c0@JFConnolly01> A client of mine is looking to determine methane potential for various food wastes, specifically determining potential methane production for various commercial food waste feedstocks. Typical feedstock sources include restaurants, grocery stores, and food preparation manufacturing. The mix will include green waste, fish, meat, and dairy with approximately 10 percent paper and cardboard and 5 percent added FOG (both by weight). We are interested in the methane and CO2 production. This could be either by direct measurement or indirectly by measurement of water, ash, and CHONP content which will allow an empirical determination of the CH4 and CO2 content. Has work been completed regarding this, or could a member point me towards a resource that might provide some insight to this request ? Respectfully, John Connolly John F. Connolly JFConnolly & Associates 7 Holman Lane Hampton, NH 03842 tel 603 758 1499 fax 603 926 6502 cell 603 767 1321 john at jfconnolly.com www.jfconnolly.com From thisisdennis at juno.com Thu Jul 17 18:31:47 2008 From: thisisdennis at juno.com (thisisdennis@juno.com) Date: Thu, 17 Jul 2008 18:31:47 -0500 Subject: [USCC] Compost Digest, Vol 53, Issue 8 Message-ID: <20080717.183147.3640.3.thisisdennis@juno.com> Hello Fellow composters, Does anybody know anything about composting Swill? A neigbor says the state is almost giving it away for cattle feed. I am not interested in it for feed but maybe compost if i can get it free. Would it have a downside like solvents or any other chemicals i might not want on our organic farm. Thanks much, Dennis Stoltzfoos Full Circle Farm Live Oak FL On Tue, 15 Jul 2008 12:00:01 -0500 compost-request at mailman.cloudnet.com writes: > Send Compost mailing list submissions to > compost at mailman.cloudnet.com > > To subscribe or unsubscribe via the World Wide Web, visit > http://mailman.cloudnet.com/mailman/listinfo/compost > or, via email, send a message with subject or body 'help' to > compost-request at mailman.cloudnet.com > > You can reach the person managing the list at > compost-owner at mailman.cloudnet.com > > When replying, please edit your Subject line so it is more specific > than "Re: Contents of Compost digest..." > ____________________________________________________________ Click to get a free auto insurance quotes from top companies. http://thirdpartyoffers.juno.com/TGL2141/fc/Ioyw6i3m2nsQJxk6jqsqDG31KOfLwkNo9DRdFLRPiugbzRst7rMHXP/ From jdl at recycle.com Mon Jul 21 16:26:01 2008 From: jdl at recycle.com (JD Lindeberg) Date: Mon, 21 Jul 2008 17:26:01 -0400 Subject: [USCC] Potential methane production - commercial food waste In-Reply-To: <000301c8e865$bb3b3660$6401a8c0@JFConnolly01> References: <000301c8e865$bb3b3660$6401a8c0@JFConnolly01> Message-ID: <00b001c8eb78$5ff31c30$1fd95490$@com> John- Lots of work has been done on this subject by Sally Brown. I have been working with the Council to develop some of these calculations protocols to figure out the methane generation that is likely to come from landfills. Let me know how I can help you on this. JD Lindeberg, PE LEED AP Principal and CFO Resource Recycling Systems Inc. 416 Longshore Drive Ann Arbor, MI 48105 734-996-1361 x-241 734-646-3303 (m) www.recycle.com -----Original Message----- From: compost-bounces at mailman.cloudnet.com [mailto:compost-bounces at mailman.cloudnet.com] On Behalf Of John F. Connolly Sent: Thursday, July 17, 2008 7:35 PM To: compost at mailman.cloudnet.com Subject: [USCC] Potential methane production - commercial food waste A client of mine is looking to determine methane potential for various food wastes, specifically determining potential methane production for various commercial food waste feedstocks. Typical feedstock sources include restaurants, grocery stores, and food preparation manufacturing. The mix will include green waste, fish, meat, and dairy with approximately 10 percent paper and cardboard and 5 percent added FOG (both by weight). We are interested in the methane and CO2 production. This could be either by direct measurement or indirectly by measurement of water, ash, and CHONP content which will allow an empirical determination of the CH4 and CO2 content. Has work been completed regarding this, or could a member point me towards a resource that might provide some insight to this request ? Respectfully, John Connolly John F. Connolly JFConnolly & Associates 7 Holman Lane Hampton, NH 03842 tel 603 758 1499 fax 603 926 6502 cell 603 767 1321 john at jfconnolly.com www.jfconnolly.com _______________________________________ Join us at the US Composting Council's 17th Annual Conference & Trade Show January 26-29th, 2009 at the Westin Galleria in Houston, TX. The National forum for those involved in the development and expansion of the composting and organics recycling industry. Conference Highlights, Registration forms, Exhibitor information and Sponsorship Opportunities available at the USCC website: www.compostingcouncil.org or call the USCC at 631.737.4931 ____________________________________________________________________________ __ Compost maillist - compost at mailman.cloudnet.com http://mailman.cloudnet.com/mailman/listinfo/compost _______________________________________ This list is a service provided by the US Composting Council (USCC). (c) Copyright 2004 United States Composting Council - All rights reserved Opinions expressed do not necessarily represent the USCC, the Foundation, or the Board of Directors. Non-members of USCC are encouraged to join the Council through its website at: http://www.compostingcouncil.org/membership.cfm Members posting CC copies to the list and other addresses may have their posting privileges suspended. For discussion list policies and information regarding subscribing, unsubscribing, digest or other options, go to: http://mailman.cloudnet.com/mailman/listinfo/compost For additional help in unsubcribing or to report bugs and problems, send a message to the List Manager at compostlistmanager at compostingcouncil.org From SGlass at abcwua.org Mon Jul 21 16:27:14 2008 From: SGlass at abcwua.org (Glass, Steve J.) Date: Mon, 21 Jul 2008 15:27:14 -0600 Subject: [USCC] Potential methane production - commercial food waste Message-ID: <330601c8eb78$941c2082$176b788f@coa.cabq.lcl> John - Check out papers written about 10 years ago by Morton Barlaz at NC State. I think he published some in Journal of Enviromental Quality. Steve Glass Albuquerque -----Original Message----- From: "John F. Connolly" To: "compost at mailman.cloudnet.com" Sent: 7/21/2008 2:11 PM Subject: [USCC] Potential methane production - commercial food waste A client of mine is looking to determine methane potential for various food wastes, specifically determining potential methane production for various commercial food waste feedstocks. Typical feedstock sources include restaurants, grocery stores, and food preparation manufacturing. The mix will include green waste, fish, meat, and dairy with approximately 10 percent paper and cardboard and 5 percent added FOG (both by weight). We are interested in the methane and CO2 production. This could be either by direct measurement or indirectly by measurement of water, ash, and CHONP content which will allow an empirical determination of the CH4 and CO2 content. Has work been completed regarding this, or could a member point me towards a resource that might provide some insight to this request ? Respectfully, John Connolly John F. Connolly JFConnolly & Associates 7 Holman Lane Hampton, NH 03842 tel 603 758 1499 fax 603 926 6502 cell 603 767 1321 john at jfconnolly.com www.jfconnolly.com _______________________________________ Join us at the US Composting Council's 17th Annual Conference & Trade Show January 26-29th, 2009 at the Westin Galleria in Houston, TX. The National forum for those involved in the development and expansion of the composting and organics recycling industry. Conference Highlights, Registration forms, Exhibitor information and Sponsorship Opportunities available at the USCC website: www.compostingcouncil.org or call the USCC at 631.737.4931 ______________________________________________________________________________ Compost maillist - compost at mailman.cloudnet.com http://mailman.cloudnet.com/mailman/listinfo/compost _______________________________________ This list is a service provided by the US Composting Council (USCC). (c) Copyright 2004 United States Composting Council - All rights reserved Opinions expressed do not necessarily represent the USCC, the Foundation, or the Board of Directors. Non-members of USCC are encouraged to join the Council through its website at: http://www.compostingcouncil.org/membership.cfm Members posting CC copies to the list and other addresses may have their posting privileges suspended. For discussion list policies and information regarding subscribing, unsubscribing, digest or other options, go to: http://mailman.cloudnet.com/mailman/listinfo/compost For additional help in unsubcribing or to report bugs and problems, send a message to the List Manager at compostlistmanager at compostingcouncil.org From bplatt at ilsr.org Tue Jul 22 12:58:54 2008 From: bplatt at ilsr.org (Brenda Platt) Date: Tue, 22 Jul 2008 13:58:54 -0400 Subject: [USCC] studies on mixed waste composting? Message-ID: <55887b8b0807221058x8bedefdvfbf5857a1b9a1525@mail.gmail.com> Can anyone point me to data/studies on mixed waste composting? I am particularly interested in demonstrating the superiority of composting segregated organic materials to mixed waste composting options. Thanks in advance. Brenda -- Brenda Platt Institute for Local Self-Reliance 927 15th Street, NW, 4th Fl Washington, DC 20005 202-898-1610 ext. 230 www.ilsr.org From gbrec at comcast.net Fri Jul 25 16:43:32 2008 From: gbrec at comcast.net (Gary Bright) Date: Fri, 25 Jul 2008 17:43:32 -0400 Subject: [USCC] Biofilter Message-ID: <20080725214337.BD1BBA4F48E@mx1.cloudnet.com> I'm exploring different avenues as to what a bilfilter will do for various treatments. Certainly composting and animals odor problems are great uses but what about a welding shop, paint shop, etc. Does anyone have input on other uses? In order to bring popularity of something that will help the composting industry such as the use of biofilters, it seems only appropriate that if other uses can be implemented it would become cost effective to pursue developing more biofilters for many uses which in turn makes it affordable for all. Gary..Michigan From craigcoker at cox.net Mon Jul 28 14:47:00 2008 From: craigcoker at cox.net (Craig Coker) Date: Mon, 28 Jul 2008 15:47:00 -0400 Subject: [USCC] Biofilter In-Reply-To: <20080725214337.BD1BBA4F48E@mx1.cloudnet.com> References: <20080725214337.BD1BBA4F48E@mx1.cloudnet.com> Message-ID: <00e801c8f0ea$b383ec40$6400a8c0@LAPTOP> Gary: Biofilters can be used to mitigate any type of air emissions that are amenable to biodegradation. Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are very treatable with biofilters. VOCs are emitted by paint booths, various industrial sources, wastewater treatment plants and pumping stations, animal waste lagoons, and, of course, composting facilities. I've seen biofilters outfitted into 55-gal drums filled with compost to treat paint fumes from backyard/garage paint shops. There are numerous examples of biofiltration systems in the literature. Craig Craig Coker Coker Composting & Consulting 3331 Glade Creek Blvd., Ste. 7 Roanoke, VA 24012 Tel.: (540) 904-2698 Fax: (540) 904-6732 Cell: (540) 874-5168 Email: craigcoker at cox.net Web: www.cokercompost.com -----Original Message----- From: compost-bounces at mailman.cloudnet.com [mailto:compost-bounces at mailman.cloudnet.com] On Behalf Of Gary Bright Sent: Friday, July 25, 2008 5:44 PM To: compost at mailman.cloudnet.com Subject: [USCC] Biofilter I'm exploring different avenues as to what a bilfilter will do for various treatments. Certainly composting and animals odor problems are great uses but what about a welding shop, paint shop, etc. Does anyone have input on other uses? In order to bring popularity of something that will help the composting industry such as the use of biofilters, it seems only appropriate that if other uses can be implemented it would become cost effective to pursue developing more biofilters for many uses which in turn makes it affordable for all. Gary..Michigan _______________________________________ Join us at the US Composting Council's 17th Annual Conference & Trade Show January 26-29th, 2009 at the Westin Galleria in Houston, TX. The National forum for those involved in the development and expansion of the composting and organics recycling industry. Conference Highlights, Registration forms, Exhibitor information and Sponsorship Opportunities available at the USCC website: www.compostingcouncil.org or call the USCC at 631.737.4931 ____________________________________________________________________________ __ Compost maillist - compost at mailman.cloudnet.com http://mailman.cloudnet.com/mailman/listinfo/compost _______________________________________ This list is a service provided by the US Composting Council (USCC). (c) Copyright 2004 United States Composting Council - All rights reserved Opinions expressed do not necessarily represent the USCC, the Foundation, or the Board of Directors. Non-members of USCC are encouraged to join the Council through its website at: http://www.compostingcouncil.org/membership.cfm Members posting CC copies to the list and other addresses may have their posting privileges suspended. For discussion list policies and information regarding subscribing, unsubscribing, digest or other options, go to: http://mailman.cloudnet.com/mailman/listinfo/compost For additional help in unsubcribing or to report bugs and problems, send a message to the List Manager at compostlistmanager at compostingcouncil.org From gbarron at ieua.org Thu Jul 31 13:32:29 2008 From: gbarron at ieua.org (Greg Barron) Date: Thu, 31 Jul 2008 11:32:29 -0700 Subject: [USCC] Biofilter References: <20080725214337.BD1BBA4F48E@mx1.cloudnet.com> <00e801c8f0ea$b383ec40$6400a8c0@LAPTOP> Message-ID: <97C6E999722DE84EAB948894B712197403D4637D@sky.IEUA.ORG> Craig, >From your experience what types of media have the best ability to reduce VOC emissions? Greg Barron Compost Facility Supervisor Inland Empire Regional Composting Authority 909-993-1509 office 909-664-7738 mobile gbarron at ieua.org -----Original Message----- From: Craig Coker [mailto:craigcoker at cox.net] Sent: Monday, July 28, 2008 12:47 PM To: 'Compost Discussion List' Subject: Re: [USCC] Biofilter Gary: Biofilters can be used to mitigate any type of air emissions that are amenable to biodegradation. Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are very treatable with biofilters. VOCs are emitted by paint booths, various industrial sources, wastewater treatment plants and pumping stations, animal waste lagoons, and, of course, composting facilities. I've seen biofilters outfitted into 55-gal drums filled with compost to treat paint fumes from backyard/garage paint shops. There are numerous examples of biofiltration systems in the literature. Craig Craig Coker Coker Composting & Consulting 3331 Glade Creek Blvd., Ste. 7 Roanoke, VA 24012 Tel.: (540) 904-2698 Fax: (540) 904-6732 Cell: (540) 874-5168 Email: craigcoker at cox.net Web: www.cokercompost.com -----Original Message----- From: compost-bounces at mailman.cloudnet.com [mailto:compost-bounces at mailman.cloudnet.com] On Behalf Of Gary Bright Sent: Friday, July 25, 2008 5:44 PM To: compost at mailman.cloudnet.com Subject: [USCC] Biofilter I'm exploring different avenues as to what a bilfilter will do for various treatments. Certainly composting and animals odor problems are great uses but what about a welding shop, paint shop, etc. Does anyone have input on other uses? In order to bring popularity of something that will help the composting industry such as the use of biofilters, it seems only appropriate that if other uses can be implemented it would become cost effective to pursue developing more biofilters for many uses which in turn makes it affordable for all. Gary..Michigan _______________________________________ Join us at the US Composting Council's 17th Annual Conference & Trade Show January 26-29th, 2009 at the Westin Galleria in Houston, TX. The National forum for those involved in the development and expansion of the composting and organics recycling industry. Conference Highlights, Registration forms, Exhibitor information and Sponsorship Opportunities available at the USCC website: www.compostingcouncil.org or call the USCC at 631.737.4931 ________________________________________________________________________ ____ __ Compost maillist - compost at mailman.cloudnet.com http://mailman.cloudnet.com/mailman/listinfo/compost _______________________________________ This list is a service provided by the US Composting Council (USCC). (c) Copyright 2004 United States Composting Council - All rights reserved Opinions expressed do not necessarily represent the USCC, the Foundation, or the Board of Directors. Non-members of USCC are encouraged to join the Council through its website at: http://www.compostingcouncil.org/membership.cfm Members posting CC copies to the list and other addresses may have their posting privileges suspended. For discussion list policies and information regarding subscribing, unsubscribing, digest or other options, go to: http://mailman.cloudnet.com/mailman/listinfo/compost For additional help in unsubcribing or to report bugs and problems, send a message to the List Manager at compostlistmanager at compostingcouncil.org