Effects

• Nutrient-rich SoilImage by Flickr.com, courtesy of Sharat Ganapati
  
  Compost enriches and rejuvenates soil. It can even significantly improve the quality of poor soil and increase the yield and quality of crops.
  
  

Economy

• Toxic ChemicalsImage by Flickr.com, courtesy of Kevin King
  
  Compost reduces or eliminates the need for expensive commercial fertilizers, insecticides and other artificial additives used for lawn and garden care.
  
  

Environment

• Overloaded LandfillsImage by Flickr.com, courtesy of Seattle Municipal Archives
  
  Composting reduces the amount of waste that ends up in landfills. It also prevents heavy metals from migrating into water sources and being absorbed by plants.
  
  

Pollution

• Burning Leaves Releases Toxic GasesImage by Flickr.com, courtesy of Amani Hasan
  
  Burning leaves and other organic waste instead of composting it releases dangerous toxins into the air. (Source 2)
  
  

Community

• Composting Builds NeighborhoodsImage by Flickr.com, courtesy of John Benson
  
  Many neighborhoods have organized to create community composting projects. This not only improves neighborhood gardens, it also promotes cooperation, involvement, civic responsibility and an improved quality of life for the residents.