507: Complete Composter

As our population grows, it is vital to improve the methods of reusing resources, leading to environmental and economic sustainability. Current practices of soil fertilization cause an endless cycle of increased strain on the ecosystem, expensive solutions to fix them, more farming regulations and higher prices for everyone. Food waste, an underused resource, is sent to landfills and produces harmful emissions. These issues can be solved by turning that waste into compost, a cheap natural resource. We set out to design an economic approach to composting that is both autonomous and accessible by anyone at any scale. 

We wanted to make sure our device was not only efficient in producing compost, but one that consumers would enjoy using. Through surveys we were able get an understanding of what an ideal composter would be for people of all experience levels. Methods which make the process quicker, reduces odors, and assist with the environmental/economic goals required to live a sustainable life, were highly desired. With this data in mind, we analyzed the composting process in depth to find how to optimize the process. 

Our device utilizes multiple sensors to accurately monitor every variable involved in the composting process (carbon, nitrogen, potassium, carbon dioxide emissions, etc.). From there, an automated system can rotate the composter or hydrate the material whenever the oxygen or moisture levels fall too low, keeping the compost in ideal conditions. This system improves the quality of the compost and lowers the barriers of entry for the everyday person.

While designed primarily with small scale gardeners and hobbyists in mind, this system can be scaled for larger industrial farming operations. This scaling up could reduce agricultural waste by 20% and provide natural fertilizer for future crops at no additional cost.