Q I am confused as to whether I should dispose of food scraps -- orange peels, coffee grounds, old bread and such -- in the garbage or put them down the garbage disposal. Which is better for the environment?
A Using a garbage disposal isn't any worse for the environment than throwing the waste into the trash, experts say.
Organic material that goes down a garbage disposal into a sanitary sewer is treated at a wastewater treatment facility before entering water. If it goes into the trash, the organic matter is taken to an incinerator or a landfill. The effect on the environment from either choice is about the same.
A much better alternative exists, however: composting. The best way to deal with food scraps is to compost it and use it to amend the soil around gardens or bedding plants.
Information on back-yard composting, including compost bins, is available at the www.greenguardian.com. (Type "compost" into search window.)
In addition, there is the very efficient method called worm composting. Only certain worms, called red wigglers (not the ones in your back yard), are good at food composting. To learn more, including how to order a kit, go to Recycling Association of Minnesota (www .recycleminnesota.org. Scroll to the bottom for instructions and video. Or call 651-641-4560.
Renters credit clarification Although the due date to file for a renters credit this year is Aug. 15, the deadline is a year later. In other words, renters have until Aug. 15, 2009, in which to file for 2007.
Send your questions to Fixit in care of the Star Tribune, 425 Portland Av. S., Minneapolis, MN 55488, or call 612-673-9033, or e-mail fixit@startribune.com. Past columns are available at www.startribune.com/fixit. Sorry, Fixit cannot supply individual replies.
