Under the patronage of the Dean of the College of Science for Women, Professor Dr. Sameera Naji Khdim , the Continuing Education Unit, in cooperation with the Department of Biology, organized a workshop entitled “Compost: Its Benefits and Method of Production from Plant and Animal Waste.”
The workshop was presented by Asst. Prof. Dr. Nadia Imad Tareq, Dr. Iltifat Fadel Shahatha, and Ms. Zahraa Rafee Taha from the Department of Biology, on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, in the Department of Biology, with the attendance of several faculty members and students.
At the beginning of the workshop, the presenters explained that compost is an organic fertilizer resulting from the decomposition of plant residues (such as garden waste and food scraps) and other organic materials under aerobic conditions by microorganisms. It serves as a soil conditioner and a source of nutrients. The word “Compost” originates from the Latin term meaning to collect and arrange organic materials together.
The speakers further explained that one of the major challenges faced by urban and rural areas alike is the accumulation of household waste, particularly kitchen and garden residues. These wastes can be recycled and converted into natural fertilizer (compost), which contributes to improving soil structure and crop quality by enriching the soil with organic nutrients. Additionally, compost helps bind soil particles, thereby preventing erosion.
The workshop also included a detailed explanation of the process of compost production. The base layer consists of straw, twigs, or dry leaves, which provide aeration and serve as a carbon layer, followed by a layer of green leaves or plant materials, representing the nitrogen layer. A light layer of animal manure—as an additional nitrogen source—is then added. These layers are alternated repeatedly while maintaining adequate moisture throughout the pile.
The presenters highlighted several benefits of compost, including the following:
When added to sandy soils, compost enhances their water retention capacity and enriches them with essential nutrients.
When added to clay soils, it increases the spacing between soil particles, thereby improving drainage and preventing excessive water retention.
Compost also stimulates beneficial microorganisms, suppresses pathogenic agents, promotes plant growth, and reduces reliance on chemical fertilizers.
