Decomposition Rates of Biodegradable Materials  based on 11
ratings Author: Sarah Benton  Although we cannot help but create
some trash living in modern society, we do have some choice in
what we purchase and how we dispose of this trash. In most
areas, at least some sort of recycling is available.
Biodegradable waste such as vegetable and fruit skins, peels,
and some food scraps can be composted.  There are many benefits
to composting: it's a great way to keep excess waste from
heading to the landfill and perpetuating nutrient cycling. Once
organic waste has decomposed, the compost can be used to add
nutrients to gardens, flower beds and house plants.  When we
can’t recycle or reuse items, they ultimately end up in a
landfill. One of the main concerns of landfill use is keeping
groundwater supplies clean. When it rains, water leaches through
the layers of garbage, picking up toxins. These toxins include
heavy metals and harmful chemicals that, unless collected or
blocked from reaching the groundwater, can ha