Charlotte, N.C., airport adds worm composting to recycling efforts

The Charlotte (N.C.) Douglas International Airport has added a vermicomposting system to its recycling center, the Charlotte Observer reported.

About 1.5 million red wiggler worms were brought in from Georgia and installed in the facility, which has reduced the trash sent to landfills by about 70% since it was conceived three years ago, according to officials.

Worms chow down on travelers' food scraps as well as plant matter and other trash, and excrete nutrient-rich "castings," which the airport will use as fertilizer, the article indicates.

Aviation Director Jerry Orr told the news agency he expects the recycling center to generate enough money to cover its costs within five years.

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