Humankind may have found a new ally in the fight to reduce waste. The California Integrated Waste Management Board has suggested that state offices could significantly reduce organic waste streams by applying a novel natural process: worm beds.

From press statements on its website, the board already has set an example by establishing worm units in their offices and across their entire agency. The board noted that over 100 staff members have a worm bin and feed the earthworms items such as tea bags, coffee grounds, food scraps and shredded newsprint.

The term for this type of activity is vermicomposting and supplies are available from many sources. There are advantages other than reducing waste volumes. The subsurface workers provide some of the best compost materials for plants, and also can supply bait for the weekend trip to the local navigable waterway. Visit www.nyworms.com/vermicomposting.htm or Google the term "vermicomposting" for further information.