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Composting & Organics Recycling Flashcards

7 cards from real CRP practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.

Read the first 7 Composting & Organics Recycling flashcards as text

  1. What is vermicomposting?

    Answer: The use of worms to decompose organic waste into nutrient-rich castings

    Vermicomposting uses worms (typically red wigglers, Eisenia fetida) to consume and process organic waste, producing nutrient-rich worm castings as the primary end product.

  2. What is the primary greenhouse gas concern associated with organic waste disposed in landfills?

    Answer: Methane generated from anaerobic decomposition

    Organic waste in landfills decomposes anaerobically, generating methane, a potent greenhouse gas with approximately 28–36 times the global warming potential of CO₂ over a 100-year period.

  3. How does an 'aerated static pile' (ASP) composting system supply oxygen to the composting mass?

    Answer: Perforated pipes connected to blowers force or draw air through a stationary pile

    Aerated static pile composting supplies oxygen via perforated pipes connected to blowers that either force air into or draw air through the pile, eliminating the need for mechanical turning.

  4. Which of the following is a common contaminant found in residential curbside organics collection programs?

    Answer: Plastic bags used to line collection containers

    Plastic bags—even those marketed as 'compostable'—are a major contaminant in residential organics streams because they frequently fail to break down in commercial facilities and must be removed.

  5. What is the primary purpose of the 'curing' phase at the conclusion of the active composting process?

    Answer: To allow continued stabilization and maturation of the compost product

    The curing phase allows remaining unstable organic compounds to decompose further, reduces phytotoxic compounds, and ensures the compost is biologically stable and safe for plant application.

  6. What does the US Composting Council's Seal of Testing Assurance (STA) program provide to compost producers?

    Answer: Verification that compost products meet quality standards through independent laboratory testing

    The STA program requires compost producers to have products tested by approved independent laboratories against minimum quality standards for stability, maturity, metals, pathogens, and other parameters.

  7. According to EPA estimates, approximately what percentage of the US municipal solid waste (MSW) stream consists of organic material that could be composted?

    Answer: 30–35%

    EPA data shows that food waste (approximately 24%) and yard trimmings (approximately 12%) together constitute roughly 30–35% of the US MSW stream, representing significant composting potential.