Cumbrians urged to compost this Autumn

Resource Cumbria is urging food lovers across the county to remember to compost as they indulge in the fruits of the autumn season.

September 23rd marks the autumnal equinox, and the official end of the summer and many people`s thoughts will already be turning to the mouth-watering harvest of seasonal fruits and vegetables.

When cooking up seasonal favourites like damson jam or apple crumble, residents are being urged to compost cores, peelings, skins and any unwanted fruit. By recycling organic waste in this way, you can watch nature transform your unwanted waste into free, quality fertiliser.

Since Resource Cumbria - the strategic waste partnership between Cumbria County Council and the six district councils - joined the national Recycle Now Compost at Home Scheme in 2006, 18,000 local residents have started composting.

For those who are not composting already, autumn is a great time to start - and with bins available from as little as £8, it has never been easier.

Not only much of your food waste and other items, such as egg shells and scrunched up paper, but you can also load up your compost bin with prunings, final grass cuttings and a limited amount of fallen leaves.

Compost takes around six to nine months until it is ready to use, but enthusiastic gardeners can apply peat-free soil conditioners in the meantime. These products, which contain recycled materials, such as grass cuttings, prunings or leaves from local gardens and parks, can also improve the nutrient level and structure of soil

Lynne Gunn of the Recycle Now Compost at Home Campaign, says: "As summer fades into autumn, many of the nation`s favourite fruits and vegetables are coming into season. When tucking into these autumnal treats, spare a thought for the environment and don`t let the leftover material go to landfill.

"Invest in a compost bin and you`ll be surprised how much free, nutritious fertiliser you can make - just by recycling organic waste from your home and garden."

Compost bins are available from £8 in your area. Check out the composting section or phone 0845 077 0757 for more details.