LAHORE: The Punjab government has urged citizens to turn kitchen waste into compost instead of throwing it away.
The initiative is part of the Chief Minister Punjab Green Credit Programme. The government issued the message on World Cleanup Day.
Citizens can use fruit and vegetable peels, eggshells and other organic waste to prepare compost at home.
According to the Punjab government, citizens can earn three green credits by converting kitchen waste into compost. Three green credits are equivalent to Rs30,000.
The government said composting can reduce household waste and support cleaner communities. The finished compost can also be used for plants and home gardening.
The Green Credit Programme aims to encourage citizens to adopt environment-friendly practices. It also promotes waste reduction and better household waste management.
How to Make Compost From Kitchen Waste
Citizens can make compost by collecting kitchen waste in layers. They can use a pot, bucket, drum or small pit for this purpose.
The container should have small holes at the bottom. These holes allow excess water to drain.
First, add a layer of dry leaves or straw. This is known as brown material. Next, add a layer of fruit and vegetable peels, known as green material.
Sprinkle a handful of garden soil over each layer. Lightly spray water to keep the mixture moist.
The waste should be mixed every five to seven days. This allows oxygen to circulate and supports the composting process.
The government advised citizens to avoid adding meat, bones, milk and oily waste. These materials can produce unpleasant smells.
The compost can become ready for use within two to three months. It can then be used as organic material for plants and gardens.
