Composting in Baby Steps: In Which I Prove That You Are Better Than I

My family has just returned from an awe inspiring vacation on Catalina Island. One of the (seemingly endless) ways that the camp lessens it’s carbon footprint is by composting. Can I take a moment and make an announcement please?

I am not a farmer.

I am a housewife from Los Angeles who happens to have access to a computer and an insatiable need to leave the world a teeny bit nicer than I found it. That need does not include turning lemon rinds into bougainvillea. Travis Langen, I blame you, because today I am researching what we need to begin composting. Why? Because you presented composting to my children in such a manner that they are very excited about the process.

• » See also: Grow Your Own Tree Hugger: 101 Activities to Teach Your Child How to Live Green
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I find myself searching for backyard composting options in all the usual places, OSH, Home Depot and Lowes. Then I remembered that my very own site, Green Options, is the way to go. Over a year ago Jeff gave us all a DIY option about building a worm bin for composting. Yes, I love my children, no. I won’t do it. If you’re into worms though it looks like a great family project.

I am one candy-ass environmentalist, the worms are out.

Ariel writes about the ReCyclone. If ever I want to tear my house down and start from scratch, I’m fairly certain that everything we own will fit in there. I’m still shopping. Joshua reminds me that composting as part of my community will help… I’m already doing that when I use the green bin provided to me by the city.

I found a great site at CompostBins.com. Here’s the problem. What does a family of four need? I’m in the city, on a tiny parcel of land. I don’t want it to stink up the neighbor’s yard (most days) and I want my kids involved?

Tell me, how did you city dwellers begin your composting adventure? Why? Blog about it and send me a link, comment here and let me know. You see this whole business of green parenting is oftentimes led by the children. My children are leading me down a path I know nothing about.

Next Tuesday I hope to have the beginnings of a compost bin right here to show you.

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