Composting, often described as nature's way of recycling, is the biological process of breaking up organic waste into an extremely useful humus-like substance. Organic waste such as food waste, grass clippings, paper, coffee grounds, etc. is rich in nutrients. Compost is used in gardens, landscaping, and agriculture. The compost itself is beneficial for the land in many ways, including as soil conditioner, a fertilizer, and as a natural pesticide for soil.

In a landfill, compostable items are buried and do not recieve enough oxygen to break down. This means that the organic waste releases methane gas into the air. In a compost facility the compost is regulated and recieves the oxygen it needs to break down and not produce these harmful emissions.