SPRINGFIELD – To increase awareness about the health and environmental benefits of compost practices, State Senator Laura Fine presented a resolution to the Senate establishing the week of May 4-10, 2025 as Compost Awareness Week.

“This resolution raises public awareness about why composting organic materials and using compost to create a healthier environment improves our quality of life,” said Fine (D-Glenview). “Communities, schools, organizations and businesses can participate in composting activities to benefit their own space and contribute to a large-scale effort to encourage sustainability.”

Senate Resolution 100 seeks to promote the importance of composting and its role in growing healthier food, supporting fertile soil, and ultimately creating a more sustainable world.

Composting is one effective way to reduce, reuse and recycle waste. The process involves the breaking down and mixing of organic residual materials, including yard trimmings, vegetable cuttings, food scraps, and hay shavings. Further, composting these organic materials can replace dependence on chemical fertilizers and pesticides that pose potential risks to humans and animals, as well as conserve water during extreme drought and decrease erosion and non-point source pollution.

“We continue to make progress to increase biodiversity in this state, and we can inspire individuals and communities to take part in this journey,” said Fine. “This resolution allows for Illinoisans to contribute to their own community’s sustainability and the health of future generations.”

Senate Resolution 100 was adopted by the Senate on Thursday.