Industrial composting is a large-scale organic waste treatment process that converts food waste, yard waste, and compostable materials into nutrient-rich compost under controlled temperature, humidity, and oxygen conditions.
Unlike backyard composting, industrial composting facilities maintain precise environmental conditions to accelerate microbial decomposition. These systems can process thousands of tons of organic waste every year and play a crucial role in modern waste management.
Industrial composting helps reduce landfill waste, lower methane emissions, and return valuable nutrients to the soil.
To understand which materials can actually break down in these facilities, see our guide on what are compostable materials.
In this guide, we explain:
- what industrial composting is
- how industrial composting works
- different composting methods used at commercial facilities
- the environmental benefits of industrial composting
industrial composting
What Is Industrial Composting?
Industrial composting, also called commercial composting, is a controlled process where microorganisms break down organic waste at large-scale facilities.
These facilities process organic waste such as:
- food scraps
- yard waste
- agricultural residues
- certified compostable packaging
Unlike home composting, industrial composting facilities carefully control:
- temperature
- oxygen levels
- moisture
- microbial activity
This controlled environment significantly accelerates decomposition and ensures the final compost product is safe and pathogen-free.
Many compostable products are made from bioplastics, which are plastics derived from renewable resources.
Learn more about these materials in our guide on what is bioplastic e composting cycle generally ranges from 30 to 180 days, which is much faster than home composting.
working principle of industrial composting
How Industrial Composting Works
Industrial composting relies on aerobic microorganisms that break down organic matter in the presence of oxygen.
The process typically includes several steps.
Shredding and Mixing
Organic waste is shredded to increase surface area and mixed to balance carbon and nitrogen content.
Temperature Control
Industrial composting facilities maintain temperatures between 55°C and 70°C (131–158°F).
These high temperatures accelerate microbial activity and kill pathogens, weeds, and harmful bacteria.
Aeration
Oxygen is supplied through mechanical turning or forced airflow systems to maintain aerobic decomposition.
Moisture Management
Moisture levels are typically maintained between 40% and 60% to support microbial activity without creating anaerobic conditions.
Depending on the composting method, the entire composting process usually takes 30 to 180 days.
Industrial Composting Temperature and Conditions
Temperature is one of the most critical factors in industrial composting.
Most commercial composting facilities operate in a thermophilic phase where temperatures exceed 55°C. This allows microorganisms to rapidly break down organic matter.
These conditions are also necessary for composting certain biodegradable plastics such as PLA (polylactic acid).
If you're curious about how long PLA takes to break down, see our guide on
<a href="https://orizonbio.com/how-long-does-it-take-for-pla-to-biodegrade/">how long does PLA take to biodegrade</a>.
Under these controlled composting conditions, many certified compostable plastics can break down within several months.
industrial composting
Types of Industrial Composting Systems
Industrial composting facilities use several different composting technologies.
Windrow Composting
Organic waste is piled into long rows called windrows and regularly turned to maintain oxygen flow and temperature.
This method is widely used for large-scale composting operations.
Static Pile Composting
Organic waste is placed in large piles mixed with dry materials such as wood chips. Airflow may occur naturally or through pipes beneath the pile.
In-Vessel Composting (IVC)
In-vessel composting uses enclosed reactors or containers where temperature, oxygen, and moisture can be precisely controlled.
This method is faster and often used in urban composting facilities.
Aerated Static Pile (ASP)
Aerated static piles use blowers and perforated pipes to supply oxygen without turning the pile.
This method improves decomposition efficiency while reducing labor.
types of waste that can be processed by industrial composting
What Materials Can Be Industrially Composted?
Industrial composting facilities can process a wide variety of organic waste materials.
Common compostable materials include:
- food scraps and kitchen waste
- garden waste and leaves
- agricultural residues
- animal manure
- certified compostable packaging
Some biodegradable plastics can also be composted if they meet certification standards such as
<a href="https://orizonbio.com/astm-d6400-certification-guide/">ASTM D6400 certification</a> or EN 13432.
For example, certain compostable polymers such as PLA and PBAT are specifically designed for industrial composting systems.
You can learn more about these materials in our article on PLA vs PBAT.
However, conventional plastics cannot be composted and may contaminate the composting process.
Industrial Composting vs Home Composting
Industrial composting and home composting differ significantly in scale and processing conditions.
| Feature | Home Composting | Industrial Composting |
|---|---|---|
| Scale | Small backyard systems | Large commercial facilities |
| Processing Time | Several months to over a year | 30–180 days |
| Waste Types | Mostly plant scraps | Wide range including meat and compostable packaging |
| Temperature Control | Minimal | Carefully controlled |
| Equipment | Simple bins | Industrial machinery |
Industrial composting can process a much larger variety of materials and produces more consistent compost.
Benefits of Industrial Composting
Industrial composting provides several environmental and economic benefits.
Reduces Landfill Waste
Organic waste diverted from landfills prevents methane emissions and reduces landfill pressure.
Improves Soil Health
Compost produced through industrial composting enriches soil with nutrients and improves soil structure.
Supports the Circular Economy
Industrial composting helps recycle organic waste into valuable agricultural inputs, supporting sustainable agriculture.
trash bag composting vs. traditional compost bins
Challenges of Industrial Composting
Despite its benefits, industrial composting also faces several challenges.
Contamination
Non-compostable plastics can contaminate compost streams.
Infrastructure Requirements
Industrial composting facilities require significant land, equipment, and regulatory approval.
Public Awareness
Consumers often confuse biodegradable plastics, compostable plastics, and recyclable plastics.
Improving waste sorting and labeling systems is critical for effective composting programs.
Conclusion
Industrial composting plays a crucial role in sustainable waste management by transforming organic waste into valuable compost.
Through controlled temperature, moisture, and oxygen levels, commercial composting facilities can process large quantities of organic waste much faster than home compost systems.
As governments and businesses work toward circular economy goals, industrial composting will continue to expand as a key solution for managing organic waste and reducing environmental pollution.
FAQ
What is industrial composting?
Industrial composting is a large-scale composting process where organic waste is decomposed into compost under controlled temperature, humidity, and oxygen conditions.
What temperature is used in industrial composting?
Industrial composting facilities typically maintain temperatures between 55°C and 70°C to accelerate microbial decomposition.
Can bioplastics be industrially composted?
Some bioplastics such as PLA can be composted in industrial composting facilities if they meet standards like ASTM D6400 or EN 13432.
How long does industrial composting take?
Industrial composting generally takes 30 to 180 days depending on the composting system and materials used.
Last updated: March 10, 2026 at 9:06 am
