In the Philippines, open burning is prohibited by law. Yet burning of waste remains a common practice in many communities, especially where implementation of the law is weak.

Besides being a fire hazard, open burning is also bad for the environment and to human health. It causes air pollution and produces toxic chemicals and particle irritants that can cause respiratory problems to humans and animals. Moreover, residue from the burnt material contaminates the soil and groundwater.

Burning waste, especially dry leaves, does not make sense. Dry leaves are an important resource. They contain nutrients that are best returned to the earth through eco-friendly processes such as composting and mulching.

What is Composting?


Composting is the natural process of recycling biodegradable waste. Aerobic composting or composting with the aid of air requires a balance of carbon-rich materials (such as dry leaves) and nitrogen-rich materials (such as kitchen discards) for an efficient, odor-free composting. These materials are layered like lasagna in the composting vessel.

How to Compost

  1. Prepare a composting vessel (e.g., used pail, basin, tire, flowering pot, etc.) or simply dig a hole in your backyard.
  2. Line your composing vessel with dry leaves. Spread the leaves evenly.
  3. Pour your kitchen discards into the composting vessel. Spread the discards evenly.
  4. Cover your compost with screen or anything that can prevent small animals and insects from scavenging your compost. Make sure the cover has some holes to allow air to get in.
  5. Do steps 2-4 until the composting vessel is full. Set it aside for three to four weeks to allow the biodegradables to fully decompose.
  6. Start composting using another vessel.
  7. After four weeks, the biodegradables in your first vessel have fully decomposed. You may now harvest its content—the compost! The compost is nutrient- and microorganisms-rich mixture of decayed and decaying organics that is a great nature soil enhancer. If you’re a gardener, go ahead and pour your compost into your garden to enhance the quality of your garden soil.

TIP. For faster decomposition, make sure to cut vegetables and fruit peels into small pieces and for efficient composting, drain the kitchen discards before pouring them into the compost.

What is Mulching?

Mulching is adding organic materials on soil surface, such as the garden. Mulching helps retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and keep the soil cool. It improves the soil structure and enhances its organic contents, resulting in healthier plants. Organic matters—carton paper, tree barks, and twigs and dry leaves make the perfect mulch. To make mulching more efficient, shred the dry leaves before adding putting them in the garden.