Collecting Dirt
By: Jan Bolick
Lots of people like to collect dirt about their co-workers and bosses.
I hate when I hear that stuff. Most of it’s garbage anyway. And it’s a good indication that morale and productivity are in the dump.
What about collecting a different kind of dirt – the kind you get when you keep the real garbage out of the real dump?
Not many businesses do this because of the hassle. But this little guy (looks a bit like Darth Vader doesn’t it?) can easily tuck into a corner somewhere.
Nothing to build. It just sits on the dirt and the worms will come.
Not a lot of maintenance or turning or watering.
Just keep a little pail by the sink or fridge and ask everyone in the office to dump their garbage into it. Coffee grounds, apple cores, leftover salad, bread crusts, paper towel rolls, etc. An easy rule of thumb – anything that came from the earth.
On the way out at the end of the day, dump it all into your Earth Machine.
Soon it will be dirt again.
Dirt which you can then use on your grounds or in flower pots.
Meanwhile – you’ll cut down on the garbage you send to the dump. We’ve noticed about a 30% drop in the amount we take out each week. And if you’ve been using a garbage disposal, you’ll save water too.
Plus you’ll help your co-workers become more aware of the importance and value of composting. In fact, if they don’t already, they may start collecting dirt at home too.
Another plus…rallying around this cause might even serve to boost morale. Which usually serves to boost productivity. And sometimes even helps people leave the dark side of collecting dirt behind.
*****
Where to Get Your Own Earth Machine: If you live around the Chapel Hill area, you can get an Earth Machine at the at the Orange County Solid Waste Administration Building; 1207 Eubanks Road, just 200 yards west of landfill. $50.00 Cash or checks only.
You can find more locations and more details at www.earthmachine.com.
There’s a tiny bit more to it than described above. Not a lot. But please read the directions before purchase just to be sure you have the full picture.
copyright 2009 – Business Class Inc
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4 Responses to “Collecting Dirt”
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Thanks for writing this blurb about using the earth machine at work. Have you have had any problems w/ people putting wrong things like meat? How many would you say use the pail and how’s it going in terms of actuallly making dirt?
We are a small business so only a few contribute which means only a few can mess it up.
As far as I know, the “right” stuff is going in.
Signs and gentle reminders* from an office manager- like person would be a good idea until people get into the habit.
*Reminders about what can go in and why this is a terrific thing to do!
I have a “what does it hurt to try” view on it. The Earth Machine is less expensive and less hassle than other alternatives.
Plus, if it fails at the office, it’s so portable, it would be easy to move to another location.
As far as “actually making dirt” – yes – it was very exciting!
Thanks. We are going for it very soon. Thanks for your prompt reply!
Wonderful news! Let me know how things go. Would love to hear how much dirt you collect and what you do with it!