Compost is more than just getting rid of foodscraps, it is creating the possibility of life.
In a compost pile, microbial life transforms organic material and waste products into soluble plant nutrients. By making high quality compost, it is possible to recycle nutrients, add life to the soil and increase the soil fertility. It is highly recommended to combine multiple different ways of composting, thereby meeting different needs. (i.e. long term compost pile, thermophilic fast compost pile, compost toilet, earthworms,..)
Although there are many ways of composting, they all require 4 components.
One of the fastest ways of composting, this method harnesses the power of microbial bacterial to break down the organic material. The most famous example of a thermophilic compost is the Berkley 18 day compost. This method should be used when compost is required quickly. Thermophilic compost is best used for annual plants, such as in the vegetable garden or around flowers.
The advantages are:
C:N is the ratio of the mass of Carbon to the mass of Nitrogen in a substance. Carbon-to-nitrogen ratios are an indicator for nitrogen limitation of plants and other organisms.
Desired ratio = 30:1
If ratio < 30:1
If ratio > 30:1
Browns = High in Carbon
Greens = High in Nitrogen
Alternate 10 cm of 4″ layers
Check water content -> do squeeze test and see if you get approximately 1 drop of water
More information: http://vric.ucdavis.edu/pdf/compost_rapidcompost.pdf