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
What carbon-to-nitrogen (C:N) ratio is generally considered optimal for active composting?
Answer: 25–30:1
A C:N ratio of 25–30:1 provides the right balance of carbon for energy and nitrogen for microbial growth during composting.
Which composting method uses earthworms to break down organic material?
Answer: Vermicomposting
Vermicomposting employs earthworms (typically red wigglers) to decompose organic matter into nutrient-rich castings.
What is the primary purpose of turning a windrow compost pile?
Answer: To aerate the pile and redistribute heat
Turning a windrow introduces oxygen and redistributes heat so that all material reaches thermophilic temperatures needed to kill pathogens.
Under the EPA's Part 503 biosolids rule, what minimum temperature must Class A compost reach to meet pathogen reduction standards?
Answer: 55°C for 15 days
EPA Part 503 requires windrow compost to be maintained at ≥55°C for at least 15 days (with five turnings) to achieve Class A pathogen reduction.
Which gas produced during anaerobic decomposition of organic waste is a potent greenhouse gas?
Answer: Methane
Methane (CH₄) generated during anaerobic decomposition has a global warming potential about 25 times greater than CO₂ over 100 years.
What is 'food waste diversion' in the context of organic waste management?
Answer: Redirecting edible or compostable food from landfill to beneficial use
Food waste diversion means redirecting organic food material away from landfill disposal toward uses such as composting, anaerobic digestion, or donation.