Hot weather slows composters down

Last month's heat wave slowed composting operations down more than usual this summer. Some facilities have seen as much as a 10% fall in tonnages coming in. SITA composting manager Stephen Wise said: “Nothing's growing so people aren't having to mow their grass so often.”

Dry

What material does come in tends to be quite dry – some trees are shedding their leaves early in order to conserve moisture, and branches are still coming in, but not enough damp material like grass to promote natural biodegradation.

Charlie Trousdell of Brighton-based TJ Composting said: “Things have been very dry which doesn’t help the composting process and the tonnages have dropped off. This is normally a good time of year, but we haven't had any rain in the South for almost two months.”

Prices on informal contracts or one off loads may rise. Mr Wise said: “On-the spot prices may need to rise by 10-20% if the dry weather continues, because revenues are dropping.”

Most composters can only hope for rain, in order to get things back to normal. Mr Trousdell added: “Some people are lucky to have their own private water supply such as a lagoon, pond or bore hole, but putting mains water in is very expensive. Most people on open windrow composting will be struggling at the moment.”

The retail market for compost has also dipped because people are either on holiday or too hot to do gardening. But this has not had as much impact because dry weather is good for the landscaping sector, which is maintaining demand for compost.

Contracts

Contract prices for green waste will not be affected, by the hot weather, but legislative pressures have seen a steady rise in the past six months.

Although some contracts see green waste accepted at as little as 17 a tonne, most composters now charge between 20 and 25 a tonne. Pressure from regulators, the cost of equipment and rates and the need to keep up with Landfill Tax rises are all contributing to a gradual rise in prices. Mr Trousdell said: “It's almost impossible to have a successful business and comply with all the relevant legislation for less than 20 a tonne.”