What's Your Excuse?

On a busy thoroughfare near Mount Road, Chennai, on a narrow stretch between the footpath and the flyover, stands this dustbin occupying the pride of place. Vehicles crush the garbage bags that fall on the floor, scattering the food waste. Pedestrians have no way of crossing this stretch except by stepping on the mess.

And, this is on one of the upmarket localities, though bordering a slum. Can we say that such sights are exceptions rather than rule?

We screw our noses, walk on tiptoe and crib at the state of waste disposal in the city. What do we do to make sure we do not contribute to the mess?

Composting is not easy, but then, nor is balancing family and career, passing exams or even driving in the city. Yet we do it. Day in and day out.

Why not compost?

All you need is one corner in your balcony.
All you need are three pots to manage the food waste.
All you need is 30 minutes a week to stir the pots.
All you need is some time once in two-three months to take out the compost.

Even if you don't have plants, even if you throw the compost by the roadside, on muddy patches, where trees grow, no one will notice. It will not stink. It will not be an eyesore. It will fertilise the soil at no cost.

What are you waiting for?