As temperatures rise and summer approaches, there’s no better time to shine a light on the everyday heroes making a difference through simple, sustainable habits.
Our May Compost Champion is a long-time Panda customer with a passion for gardening and a lifetime commitment to recycling. With over 15 years of experience using our service and a deep-rooted dedication to sustainability at home and at work, this Champion reminds us that composting doesn’t need to be complicated to have a real impact.
Q: Congratulations on winning Panda’s Compost Champion competition! How did you hear about Panda’s Composting Championship?
A: I came across the competition advertisement through the Panda website.
Q: How long have you been a Panda customer?
A: I have been a Panda customer well in excess of 15 years now. I am very happy with the service I receive.
Q: Why did you nominate yourself for the Compost Championship?
A: I nominated myself because I always had an interest in recycling, both at work and at home. I’m a keen gardener, so I reuse as much organic material as I can around the garden. Recycling is part of my life, both at work and home.
Q: What are your thoughts on recycling and waste management?
A: Education is vital for understanding the benefits of recycling and waste management. We need to change our behaviour, be smarter with our recycling, and create a better environment for our children and grandchildren.
Q: Was there anything surprising you learned about what can go into your compost bin?
A: One surprise was that used takeaway pizza boxes can go into the compost bin. I had put them in the green recycling bin but hadn’t considered that grease contamination makes them better suited for composting.
Q: Was there a specific moment or reason that sparked your composting journey?
A: Not really. I was always aware of the importance of recycling from my work environment and simply carried on at home.
Q: Have you always embraced recycling and composting, or was this a new journey for you?
A: I spent most of my working life in a manufacturing environment where waste management and recycling were part of everyday processes. That shaped my attitude to recycling and its value.
Q: What would you say to someone who thinks composting is too difficult or not worth the effort?
A: Recycling is easy and worthwhile. Sorting waste into the right bins is a small change that helps cut greenhouse gas emissions and turns waste into valuable by-products. It’s well worth the effort.
Q: Any plans for your prize winnings that you’re excited to share?
A: I’m going to buy more plants for my garden. I love my garden.
Q: Any funny compost fails, wins, or pet peeves you’ve encountered?
A: It really annoys me when I see cigarette butts in compost or recycling bins.
From garden clippings to pizza boxes, Denis shows just how much everyday items can be diverted from landfill with a bit of awareness and habit. His story is a reminder that composting isn’t just about bins but about mindset. Whether you’re just getting started or you’ve been composting for years, small changes like sorting correctly, spreading the word, and leading by example can help create a cleaner, greener Ireland.
Are you up for the #CompostChallenge? For a chance to win FREE bin collections for a year, join the competition by registering here!
