Compost.

For many years, my mother has had a compost bin in her backyard. She saves eggshells, yard clippings, produce waste and more and uses it to amend her soil. My grandmother loved to contribute the clippings from when she shelled peas or cleaned greens or canned fruit or vegetables.

Composting is the a natural method of recycling that transforms "organic material (plant matter) through decomposition into a soil-like material called compost. Invertebrates (insects and earthworms), and microorganisms (bacteria and fungi) help in transforming the material into compost." It doesn't take much space and it's a great way to reduce waste and to create nutrient-rich soil. This is important because food and yard waste make up 30% of the waste in the US.

Here's how to get started:

* Here is a list of the the materials you can compost.
* Click here for information on the materials you'll need to compost.
* Visit here here for tips on composting techniques.
* You'll find composting information in French and English here.

Now is a great time to start your own compost pile. Have fun!