The latest sustainability initiative on the Queens campus is
building an O2 Compost System. This is an aerobic
compost styem which has an enclosed structure with pipes that
run through the system. This allows air flow produced from an
electric blower. Inspiration for
the O2 Compost System came from
Stone Barns Farm in Pocantico Hills, New York. For more
information view this
O2 Compost System Powerpoint.
The are many benefits of this system, some of them include:
- Recyling St. John's waste.
- Reduces the use of fossil fuels. Note that when you purchase
synthetic fertilizer it is not only made using natural gas (a
non-renewable resource), but it was also used to make and transport
the product. Approximately 2% of natural gases used in the U.S. is
from manufacturing synthetic fertilizer. Why purchase it and waste
natural gas when you can make it for free?
- While using this sytem compost can be produced in a shorter
amount of time (about a month).
- It is easier to maintain due to aeration of the compost. This
system does not require manual turning.
- Rebuilds soil structre, reduces eroision, provides
essential nutrients for soil and plants, and increases aeration in
the soil which allows bacteria to thrive.