Think Globally
Additional Benefits of Compost
Some additional benefits of compost have been identified, and has led to new uses for it. These benefits and uses are described below.
Binds Contaminants
Compost has the ability to bind heavy metals and other contaminants, reducing both their leachability and absorption by plants. Therefore, sites contaminated with various pollutants may often be improved by amending the native soil with compost.
The same binding affect allows compost to be used as a filter media for storm water treatment and has been shown to minimize leaching of pesticides in soil systems.
Degrades Compounds
The microbes found in compost are also able to degrade some toxic organic compounds, including petroleum (hydrocarbons). This is one of the reasons why compost is being used in bioremediation of petroleum contaminated soils.
Wetland Restoration
Compost has also been used for the restoration of native wetlands. Rich in organic matter and microbial population, compost and soil/compost blends can closely simulate the characteristics of wetland soils, thereby encouraging the re-establishment of native plant species.
Erosion Control
Coarser composts have been used with great success as a mulch for erosion control and have been successfully used on sites where conventional erosion control methods have not performed well. In Europe, fine compost has been mixed with water and sprayed onto slopes to control erosion.
Weed Control
Immature composts or ones which possess substances detrimental to plant growth (phytotoxins), are also being tested as an alternative to plastic mulches for vegetable and fruit production. While aiding in moisture conservation and moderating soil temperatures, immature composts also act as mild herbicides.
© 2000, Jim McNelly