CPWM Composting and Organic Waste Management Questions and Answers Flashcards
6 cards from real CPWM practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 CPWM Composting and Organic Waste Management Questions and Answers flashcards as text
In-vessel composting differs from windrow composting primarily because it:
Answer: Occurs inside an enclosed, controlled container
In-vessel composting occurs in enclosed drums, tunnels, or reactors that allow precise control of temperature, moisture, and aeration.
Which federal regulation governs land application of sewage sludge (biosolids) and sets limits for pathogens and heavy metals?
Answer: 40 CFR Part 503
40 CFR Part 503 (EPA's 'biosolids rule') establishes standards for the use and disposal of sewage sludge, including pathogen reduction and pollutant limits.
What does 'digestate' refer to in anaerobic digestion of organic waste?
Answer: The solid/liquid residue remaining after digestion
Digestate is the nutrient-rich solid and liquid material left after anaerobic microorganisms have broken down organic feedstock and captured biogas.
Which of the following is a contaminant commonly found in source-separated organics that reduces compost quality?
Answer: Plastic film bags
Plastic film bags are a major contaminant in organics collection programs because they do not break down and leave microplastic residues in finished compost.
What is the recommended moisture content range for an actively composting pile?
Answer: 50–60%
Moisture content of 50–60% supports microbial activity without saturating the pile and causing anaerobic conditions.
Anaerobic digestion of food waste primarily produces which two useful outputs?
Answer: Biogas and digestate
Anaerobic digestion generates biogas (mostly methane, used for energy) and digestate (a nutrient-rich residue used as fertilizer).