How do I dispose of organic waste living out here in the countryside? Actually, with a composter that works inside the city: back when I lived in Rio de Janeiro, I had one too. I recommend it!
In it go the foods that weren’t cooked — some of them spoiled — and the scraps from meals I’ve prepared. I throw sawdust on top, close the lid, and that’s it: it will turn into compost.
No smell, no critters…
After a few weeks, I come back and drain the leachate, which makes an excellent fertilizer for the plants. And then there’s the composted soil, which is also very good for the plants.
And that’s it: food becomes food for the plants.
As for cooked food — plus onion, lemon, things that don’t belong in the composter — I take it to the foot of a tree. I keep changing the spot so I don’t overload any single tree. And whenever I get there, I check whether any critters have come around.
Originally published on my Instagram in March 2025.