tyler talks trash

Hidden Costs Series: Starbucks (video)

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-ppkVx0fRPY This is one part of a video series called “Hidden Costs”, which focuses on one particular thing and gives it a grade based on categories like Environment, Health and Economy. While I really like this video (and a few others in the series), I disagree with a few things.  First, Starbucks does not deserve a B in the Environment category.  According to this video, their products are 10% recyclable.  All they need to do is implement composting programs at their stores, both for the employees and the customers.  The majority of waste at a coffee shop is compostable. Time for a quick local blasting:  Philadelphia has several composting services available that are very affordable, yet the majority of our coffee shops don’t utilize them.  Hell, there’s even services provided…

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What Are These Bugs in My Kitchen Compost Bin? (video)

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gnh-O2euWQU Kitchen compost crocks aren't my favorite tool when it comes to composting, but they are fun to ignore. For the last several months, I decided to fill it up and not empty it since it's colder out (less bugs) and it won't smell as bad. I opened it up today, and it was nothing but sludge in the bottom and gobs of compost mites around the lid. These are a common inhabitant of worm bins, but they don't really pose a threat to your system. In fact, they're a bit of a help since they indicate that your compost is unbalanced. Most likely your compost is too moist, and that's what these critters like being around. The solution? Add a bunch of dry browns to balance it out. The…

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