An important step in site development is deciding what types of feedstock material will be initially be accepted, as well as potential for the future. The list of materials, and their possible sources is large and diverse. Most municipal programs accept leaves and yard trimmings from residential and public properties. Food scraps from residential properties […]
Most municipalities consult outside engineering firms to design their organics facilities. These businesses can be hired to look at systems, or can be hired to design a chosen system on a site you have already. They will look at your footprint, equipment needed and processing rates to produce end product at a rate your site
Regulations regarding compost production vary from state to state; however, many of them follow related solid waste regulations. These regulations are designed to protect public health, safety and the environment and can be a significant part of a facility’s operating cost. Keep these factors in mind when applying for a permit: See USCC’s State Regulations
Odor issues are a leading cause of facility closures. Understanding the sources of potential odors and designing processes for odor control and mitigation are critical to the success of the facility. As an organic material decomposes, the mix of volatile compounds shifts, changing vapor pressures and then, odor. The biology of microorganisms produces some changes;
Rainfall (on-site and run-on), stormwater (from structures and on-site roads) and contact water (leachate, wash water) must all be managed both as a resource and a liability. Control systems, such as retention basins or other containment, treatment systems or direct connections to sanitary sewer lines, may be needed to meet regulatory requirements. Appropriate management of
Once an appropriate site and technology have been selected, the following objectives should be prioritized when designing the site: Minimize the amount of material handling, traffic equipment crossing paths and vehicle bottlenecks Ensure separate areas for clean and contaminated materials – clean materials should be sited uphill of new feedstocks/unfinished materials to reduce contamination Provide
A critical component in developing a facility is understanding how many tons per year (TPY) will need to be processed. Waste audits and waste composition studies will be key to framing this number. (See the Waste Audit section for more). The following variables will be helpful in determining a site’s needed capacity: Parcel size and
Evaluate these possible obstacles before choosing your compost site: Incorrectly zoned Located in a floodplain No access to water Inadequate access roads Unbuildable soils Excessive hauling costs Be sure to also evaluate the site in light of environmental justice and ensure your operations won’t negatively impact a neighborhood that has been overburdened with past commercial/industrial
Each municipality will have unique challenges and opportunities in developing a composting site. A compost site must provide sufficient area and conditions for all-weather composting while limiting environmental risk, odor, and noise. Site development involves creating a plan for finding an acceptable location, adapting the composting method to the site (or vice versa), providing sufficient
