Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) composting is a rapidly growing method of solid waste management in the United States. MSW includes the residential, commercial, and institutional solid waste generated within a community. MSW composting is the process by which the organic, biodegradable portion of MSW is microbiologically degraded under aerobic conditions.

During the process of degradation, bacteria are used to decompose and break down the organic matter into water and carbon dioxide, which produces large amounts of heat and water vapor in the process. Given sufficient oxygen and optimum temperatures, the composting process achieves a high degree of volume reduction and also generates a stable end product called compost that can be used for mulching, soil amendment, and soil enhancement. As a form of solid waste management, MSW composting reduces the amount of waste that would otherwise end up in landfills.

Although composting...