Composting Initiatives

Home Composting

Michigan Tech is investigating various methods of home composting at the Sustainability Demonstration House. This includes the traditional backyard aerobic composting of kitchen food waste, the Whirlpool Zera Dehydrator/Composter, and the Bokashi Fermenter/Pre-composter (shown below). Each has its own unique advantages and disadvantages.

 Aerobic Composting of Kitchen Food Waste

Aerobic Composting of Kitchen Food Waste

 Whirlpool Zera Dehydrator/Composter

Whirlpool Zera Dehydrator/Composter

 Bokashi Fermenter/Pre-Composter

Bokashi Fermenter/Pre-Composter

Dining Hall Food Waste

Michigan Tech is also investing in a large scale Dehydrator/Composter through a grant from the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE) formerly the Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ). The goal is to reduce food disposal waste by 90% daily.

Dehydrator/Composter