Category: FAQ

Biodegradation is nature’s way of recycling all plants and animals, breaking down organic matter (OM) into complex molecular structures, then simple compounds and, finally, chemical elements – the basic building blocks of life on this planet.  Composting is a manufacturing process based on the application and control of this natural recycling system.

Complete biodegradation takes a long, long time.  But between the death of the organism and its eventual disorganization into atomic parts exists a phase where …

A:  No.  Our compost meets EPA Exceptional Quality standards for these types of products.…

A:  Yes.  Our product is an excellent soil amendment for lawns and gardens and is very suitable for food crops.

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A:  Biosolids are a by-product of biological wastewater treatment systems.…

A:  A good rule of thumb is no more than 30 percent in any mix or soil profile.  Our compost is richer than one made from yard waste, as feedstocks influence the quality and nutrient value of compost products.  When using McGill compost for the first time, ask to see an analysis and correlate the application rate to a recent soil sample and the requirements of the crop or turfgrass variety.  Our compost sales representatives …

A:  Topsoil is the layer of humus (partially decomposed organic matter) between the surface and the subsoil, and mulch is a material applied to the soil surface to discourage weeds, provide shade and reduce moisture loss through evaporation. Compost is a soil amendment, usually incorporated into the soil.  It can be used as mulch.  It can be used to make topsoil, but should never be used as a soil  substitute.

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A:  Composting saves natural resources, reduces landfill space requirements, protects the environment and saves our customers money.  In addition, most fertilizers are manufactured from fossil fuels – not in abundant supply – and distances from point of manufacture to markets are considerable, often over oceans.  Raw materials for compost manufacture are sourced locally and compost products are used locally, greatly reducing energy consumption.   But the most important reason to compost is because it results in …

A: Our compost is manufactured from biodegradable by-products and processing residuals from agriculture, municipalities and industries, including such materials as:

• Yard waste (aka green waste)
• Clean wood (pallets, dimensional lumber, forestry products)
• Vegetable scraps and culls, past sell-by or recalled products and other pre/post-consumer food wastes such as  fats, oils and grease (FOG)
• Biosolids
• Selected residuals from drinking water and industrial wastewater treatment, including DAF sludge
• Agricultural by-products (manure, bedding, hatchery waste)
• Paper and cardboard

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A: Incorporated in 1991, McGill Environmental Systems is a private, industrial-scale recycling company with composting operations in North Carolina, Virginia and Ireland and about 100 employees worldwide.  We use an advanced composting technology to convert biodegradable materials into high-value compost products for commercial and professional markets and offer related services like sludge dewatering and transportation.  We also design, build and operate composting facilities owned by others.  McGill products are sold to landscape suppliers, golf courses, …