Composting refers to that part of the nutrient cycle in which organic material is degraded by ground-dwelling organisms (heterotrophic) under the influence of oxygen in the air (aerobic). In addition to carbon dioxide, this also releases minerals such as nitrates, ammonium salts, phosphates, potassium and magnesium compounds which act as fertilizers. Some of the intermediate products created in this degradation process are transformed into humus.

Many different biological materials can be composted. Most frequently, green waste, garden waste and kitchen leftovers are composted.

In the professional composting process, machines from the areas of shredding, screening and turning are used to quickly produce a compost of the highest quality which can be marketed successfully as potting soil or natural fertilizer.