Composting process type – UGC NET Question

Composting uses microorganisms to break down organic waste such as food scraps, garden trimmings and farm residues. Under controlled moisture, temperature and aeration, this biological process converts waste into a stable, humus-like product that can be applied to soil as manure. It reduces the amount of biodegradable material going to landfills and recycles nutrients back into the ecosystem. Therefore, describing composting as controlled biological decomposition of organic waste is accurate.

Option A:
Option A is incorrect because shredding plastics is a physical pre-treatment for recycling, not a biological transformation. Plastics do not decompose in normal composting systems and require different handling methods.

Option B:
Option B is correct as it specifies both the biological nature of the process and the beneficial end product. Properly managed composting can also reduce pathogens and odours, making it a sustainable option for organic waste management.

Option C:
Option C is incorrect since incineration involves burning waste to reduce volume and possibly recover energy. While it can treat mixed waste, it does not produce manure and has different environmental implications, including air emissions.

Option D:
Option D is incorrect because landfilling hazardous waste is a containment strategy for dangerous materials. Composting, in contrast, is intended for biodegradable organic matter and is not an appropriate method for hazardous chemicals.