The Composting Process

The OD Recycling facility accepts biodegradable materials for composting.

On arrival at the facility, the biodegradable waste is mixed with other natural biodegradable materials such as sawdust, woodchip and straw.

This mix is then blended with finished compost oversize materials to start the process effectively. 

The mixture is placed in a large composting 'tunnel'. The material composts inside this tunnel where it is constantly monitored to ensure the correct levels of heat, oxygen and moisture.

The entire process takes around 2 to 4 weeks.  

All of the composting activities are carried out indoors. The process exhaust air from the compost piles is taken out of the building through an air extraction system which feeds a 'biofilter'. The biofilter removes ammonia, sulphides and mercaptans associated with odour from the exhaust air by using micro-organisms in a matrix of woodchip and matured stabilised compost.

There is little environmental impact from the operations of the facility besides positive impact on the surrounding tillage soil.

The process is beneficial as a sustainable alternative to more energy intensive sludge stabilising options. It also reduces the impact of direct sludge application to soils, especially when they are spread in improper conditions.

The compost has a high cation exchange capacity, high organic matter content and high waste holding capacity. Compost cannot leach into the soil or cause a liquid run-off from direct application. It is a pleasant, mostly odour free material with little handling difficulties.

The facility has historically produced a quality compost product of Class I and or Class II that meets the standards set out in its Waste Facility Permit. The end compost is suitable for landspreading purposes and has also been utilised in landscaping including racecourses and golf courses. Due to the material's stability and reduced odour it has also been utilised quite effectively as landfill cover.

All activities carried out at OD Recycling are strictly in accordance with the Facility’s Waste Permit (WFP-TS-10-0002-02) issued by South Tipperary County Council.

OD Recycling have received first stage approval from the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food for approval to treat Animal By-Products at the facility.