Re: Cardboard composting
Cary Oshins (coshin@rodaleinst.org)
Wed, 24 Jun 1998 08:47:44 -0700
gardenbetty@earthlink.net wrote:
>
> Cecile wrote:
> >As far as the term *low input* goes, do you mean *low chemical input* or
> >something else? Because organic farmers certainly have input into their
> >soils--to condition them to reduce pest damage. I am currently exploring
> >the use of cardboard as mulch and compost--hope it works (I'm seeking
> >information on if the ink on cardboard boxes is toxic, if anyone knows?)
>
> We use a lot of cardboard for sheet composting so I just posted this very
> question to the compost listserv and the answer was mixed. Some were adamantly
> opposed to using cardboard in compost because of --as of yet
> unverified--information about heavy metals in the inks. Others were more
> moderate in their opinions citing the fact that Rodale and others have used
> cardboard in their compost without deleterious effect. Basically, the jury is
> still out pending further science (which would be great if anyone would like
> to volunteer some either way). However the general consensus was that it would
> be best if paper was recycled back into paper rather than used on the land.
>
> Thoughts?
-paper to paper is usually best use.
-cardboard does make an excellent bulking agent
-waxed paper cannot be recycled
-inks are not toxic, though colors probably have trace heavy metals.
-the limiting element is boron, which is in the glue. i don't know the
exact concentration, but will put out some questions to see if I can get
an acceptable loading rate. I am sure it is very high.
--
Cary Oshins
Composting Specialist
Rodale Institute
(610) 683-1415
coshin@rodaleinst.org
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