Composting dos and don'ts
As Lombard launches a new curbside composting program, the village is directing residents to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for guidance on what to compost and what not to compost. The list is available online at https://www.epa.gov/recycle/composting-home.
What to compost
Fruits and vegetables; eggshells; coffee grounds and filters; tea bags; nut shells; shredded newspaper; cardboard; paper; yard trimmings; grass clippings; house plants; hay and straw; leaves; sawdust; wood chips; cotton and wool rags; dryer and vacuum cleaner lint; hair and fur; fireplace ashes.
What not to compost
• Black walnut tree leaves or twigs; coal or charcoal ash
Why: might contain or release substances that could harm plants
• Dairy products including butter, milk, sour cream, yogurt and eggs; fats, grease, lard or oils; meat or fish bones and scraps;
Why: Create odors that attract rodents and flies
• Diseased or insect-ridden plants
Why: Surviving diseases or insects could be transferred back into other plants
• Pet wastes such as dog or cat feces and soiled cat litter
Why: Might contain parasites, bacteria, germs, pathogens and viruses harmful to humans
• Yard trimmings treated with chemical pesticides
Why: Might kill beneficial composting organisms