Bokashi Composting System
by Justin Thomas, Virginia on 06.15.05
I mentioned the Bokashi Composting System in a previous post. A Treehugger reader, Alexander, tells us of his experience with Bokashi:
I've been searching and searching the net for a way to compost within the confines of my small, urban apartment. Though it took forever, I found a system that is very easy and doesn't smell at all. It's based on 'effective microorganisms' and yields a few really nice benefits. The runoff from the bucket can be used to do two things: fertilize your household plants when diluted, or keep your drains clear when used at full strength.
The composting bin seen above is built to work with Bokashi, it's made of 70% recycled plastic, and sells for around $30-50. WholeFoods will soon be selling sawdust inoculated with Bokashi.
:: Happy Farmer Kitchen Composter
Apparently, this product requires purchase of bags of the "effective microorganisms" (US$9-12/gallon), which will affect its cost-effectiveness.
i made a composter from a green garbage can w/ clamp-on lid, and drilled several holes in the lid for air circulation. to mix contents, simply lay down and roll a few times! it cost about $10 and can always be used again as a trash can. as for the liquid, you can pour it out or let it drain thru a small hole drilled in the bottom.
as for microorganisms, there are millions in freshly cut grass, compost, or top soil, just add some every few days or so.
If you want to get the original Effective Microorganisms, or EM1, to be to make your own EM Bokashi, please visit www.emamerica.com.
For instructions on how to use EM1 and make EM Bokashi, please visit: http://www.howtouseem1.com.
Eric
i just bought one of these composters and it's honestly pretty cool. i got it because i wanted a place to put my chicken bones and meat scraps so they dont smell up the trash. now i put all my scraps in it and it works great. it really doesnt smell at all. i made my own bokashi once too, but it was a huge hassle. it's easier to buy it. a 10 dollar bag lasted me a little longer than a couple of months.
I prefer the NatureMill automatic compost machine (written up in treehugger last March). It makes "real" compost, rather than fermented preserved bokashi. You don't have to buy any EM1 or anything like that so in the long run it is much cheaper. They even tell you on their website naturemill.com how to replace the carbon filter yourself - not the type of scam you usually find with filters/toner/razor blades, etc.