3 Composters recommended to start zero waste life in Japan

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Composting has gained popularity as a sustainable way to reduce waste and improve soil health worldwide.

Japan accounts for more than half of the world’s incinerators and lags behind other OECD countries with a waste incineration rate of 79.5% and a recycling and composting rate of less than 20%. Composting is a key solution for reducing Japan’s combustible waste. For that reason, various composters with the versatility and adaptability to different lifestyles in Japan have been created in Japan recently.

Kiero

Kiero is a composter that breaks down food waste by bacteria in black soil. It was created in Hayama, Kanagawa prefecture, and spread around Japan.

Hayama sells Kiero to residents, but it is stopping selling Kiero all around Japan except Kamakura, Zushi, and Yokosuka city right now. However, you can make it by yourself easily, because all materials are available at home centers. Some municipalities offer subsidies to promote the use of Kiero as an easy way to reduce food waste.

Unlike other composters, the Kiero system does not require the purchase of certain bacteria, so there are no maintenance costs. In addition, the amount of soil does not increase when food scraps are added, so it can be used repeatedly, even by those who do not have a garden.

Furthermore, it is possible to throw in anything, including cooking oil and curry, and it is also excellent in that it does not have the odor characteristic of food scraps. The decomposition time is relatively quick, about five days in summer and two to three weeks in winter, so that the compost can be made consistently.

LFC compost

The LFC Compost is a compact, bag-shaped composting system that is easy to use, even for those new to composting or living in the city. It promotes a food waste-free lifestyle by turning food waste into compost, which can be used to grow vegetables.

To use it, simply add food scraps to the bag for three weeks, close the bag, and let it mature for about two weeks. When it becomes compost, it is mixed with special soil, and the bag’s edges are folded to use as a planter. Vegetable seeds are included with the composting kit, allowing you to grow and eat your produce. Even beginners can confidently start composting with the help of an online advisor for any questions or issues that may arise.

Shima Sangyo Food Garbage Dryer

A food waste disposal machine is a good option for those who want to compost but don’t have the time to maintain it frequently. Food Garbage Dryer Paris Paris Cube produced by Shima Sangyo is a popular, dryer-type food waste disposal machine that is small and easy to place indoors.

Put food scraps into the machine and press the button to dry them using low-temperature air between 60-80°C. The dried food scraps can then be thrown away or crushed into small pieces and used as organic fertilizer. This compact machine takes up minimal space and operates quietly and with little odor. It also has a 3-hour start reservation function, allowing you to run it during off-peak hours for lower electricity rates. The Good Design Award-winning design of the machine makes it a stylish addition to any home.

Composting is a sustainable and rewarding way to manage food waste and improve soil health. By transforming organic waste into nutrient-rich compost instead of disposing of it as garbage, you can begin to see the value in things that were once considered waste and recognize their potential as resources.

Not only does composting help to reduce waste and promote environmental sustainability, but it can also inspire a shift in mindset towards a more positive and eco-friendly outlook.