Dispersed Composting Network
History
The Dispersed Composting Network was originally set up in 2004 as a pilot initiative led by Sheffield City Council working with 2 third sector partners, Heeley City Farm and Green Estate Ltd. The aim was to divert organic matter from landfill and increase Sheffield’s recycling figures while also reducing the carbon footprint of transportation. This was done by securing a set of satellite sites throughout the city for the disposal of green waste. This unique model not only provides environmental benefits and reduces transportation costs but saves time to the customer with the convenience of a choice of drop off sites.
Green Estate successfully achieved PAS100 accreditation, using the open windrow method in July 2008 which enables the compost to be sold as a retail product
Benefits of Compost.
Reduces the need for inorganic fertilisers - compost is a valuable organic source of the nutrients commonly found in inorganic fertilisers.
Improves soil structure - it's been proven that compost improves the aggregate strength of soil. It also allows root systems to penetrate more easily, enabling them to find nutrients and water more effectively.
Raises water retention capacity - soil rich in compost absorbs and retains water better. This means it needs less irrigation, which reduces overall consumption.
When used as mulch it helps prevent erosion and weeds - on light soils in particular, a layer of compost provides excellent protection from the wind and rain. It also starves weeds of the light source they need to flourish.
Contains valuable micro-organisms - micro-organisms do three good things to soil. Feeding off the organic matter in compost, and teaming up with the micro-organisms already present in the soil to which they've been added, they release polysaccharides and humic substances that help improve soil structure. They release nutrients in organic matter and make it available to plants and crop to use as food.
Reduces cost - compost improves soil quality which leads to better plants and crops that need less irrigating, that are easier to cultivate and need less fertilising.
Products and services
Delivering green waste to our composting network helps support Green Estate as an organisation. It helps to benefit the local community in Sheffield. Green Estate is committed to regeneration in a sustainable, environmentally friendly way.
· Drop off service at multiple sites for green waste
· Mobile green waste processing unit
· Bagged compost, mulch and soil improver
· Recycled woodchip for mulch and footpaths
Our Compost is screened to 20mm and is available to purchase in small bags or in bulk.
For more information contact
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