Managing waste & resources locally

Increasing numbers of people and communities across the Highlands want to do their bit to minimise their impacts on the environment.  Community composting projects provide an opportunity to do this, by managing an important resource locally which can improve the quality of local soils. Many community composting projects have come to an end when funding arrangements have ceased, however, others have continued successfully, and it is important to understand why this is the case – to learn from previous experience and make the most of the great opportunities that community composting can offer.

Compost is nutrient-rich input for any growing project or garden and will help improve soil structure, maintain moisture levels and feed your plants. It has everything your plants need, including nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium and much needed carbon. Compost improves your soil’s condition which is important for plant growth,

Composts provide a valuable growing medium for community growing projects, avoid waste streams from being hauled long distances for disposal and substitute for expensive and sometimes environmentally damaging composts purchased (in particular if containing peat).

Providing community benefits and supporting local food growing

A community that works together can create opportunities locally.  Community composting is one important part of a wider opportunity where the nutrient rich compost can support local food growing, save money (not buying as much compost), provide skills, knowledge and recognised training e.g. a master composter certificate. 

The Highland Good Food Partnership is working to support the development of community-based growing projects which will educate people about food and diet, improving their physical and mental health.  It also has the aim of making people more aware of the environmental impacts of the food they consume, and to help create viable jobs and businesses in growing and processing food in the highlands.  The Partnership has a map which can direct you to local projects in your area.

Partnership potential

A community composting project has to have an outlet for the compost produced, and working as part of an existing growing group, or as part of one, will assist your project to develop in the first place, as well as to then sustain it over the long term.  

Guidance and regulation

Highland Council’s environmental health team should be contacted for advice when a growing project is being set up, as well as when compost from a community group is to be used. 

Food Standards Scotland provides guidance on to help fresh produce growers manage microbiological contamination risks as well as a number of other risks.