IGNYTE Magazine Issue 05 | Page 43

Untreated wood sawdust

Black & white newspaper

Used paper napkins

Use paper towels

Unwaxed cardboard (must rip into small pieces)

Paper bag (must shred)

Floor crumbs

Stale cereal

Cereal Box (must shred)

Unwaxed used paper plates

Nut Shells (except walnut shells)

Wine corks

Toothpicks

Special Situations

There are some items that may fall under the aforementioned “green” or “brown” categories but must be given special attention when being considered for compost. These items may disrupt your pile by inadvertently introducing a nasty fungus, foul odors or unwelcome critters into your backyard. Because every situation is unique, it’s best to leave these items out of your pile unless you are properly prepared for the consequences. Below is a list of materials that you should take special precautions with when adding them to your compost bin.*

*These items can be compostable depending on the compost program. Please contact your local municipality to learn more before composting.

Jack-o’-lanterns (smashed)

Young weeds

Cooking oil

Diapers

Glue

Latex rubber

Meats & dairy (be sure to keep isolated or frozen until

pickup day to avoid nasty smells