Why on `earth` (excuse the pun) are they harping on about composting? ok, garden waste and kitchen scraps go to landfill, but its organic, it decomposes quickly doesn't it?

Yes, this type of green waste will decompose a lot more quickly than any other type of waste, however it is surprisingly toxic as it does so it emits methane, contributing to climate change. It also produces leachates which make their way into our water supply.

Composting is all very well in the green gardens of suburbia, but I live in a flat, what am supposed to do? compost on my balcony?

There are different methods of composting, wormeries are more suitable for indoor or small space composting.

The Project
In 2002, Portsmouth friends of the Earth secured some funding to start up Can-Do composting project. We were able to employ our very own project worker, Tracey Jones

We have a permanent demonstration site opposite our allotment at Long Meadows Allotments, where there a variety of "working bins" in action. You can also find us on public stands throughout the year in and around the city

Schools
Part of Tracey's repartee is to visit schools and community groups to spread the composting message. She has a travelling Recycling Game and Wormery in tow.

She says" The kids are so receptive to new ideas, to spread the message in a fun way is so rewarding. They are an excellent target, taking the information to the parents or carers or simply composting and recycling as an every day habit when they reach adulthood"