Soil Ecology Lab has just launched the UK’s first Compost Championships — a nationwide competition bringing together compost makers from across the UK to discover just how good compost can be. If you’re creating compost without animal inputs and championing soil health through plants, this is your chance to show what plant-based organic compost can really do.
We know that “best compost” can be a contentious idea. That’s why judging is rooted firmly in science, not opinion. Entries are assessed through microscope analysis of microbial abundance and diversity, alongside the carbon-to-nitrogen (C:N) ratio, which indicates how accessible nutrients are for plants. These metrics allow plant-based compost to stand on its own merits — and often shine. Results will be published in a public ranking table, with quarterly winners celebrated every three months and an overall champion crowned next December. Thanks to our fantastic compost-focused sponsors, there are prizes for winners and runners-up.
At its heart, though, this competition is about celebrating everyone who composts. All entrants gain access to weekly community Zoom calls hosted by Soil Ecology Lab — a welcoming space to ask questions, share experiences, or simply listen in as fellow compost enthusiasts exchange ideas and insights.
Every participant also receives 20% off Soil Ecology Lab training, including:
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Hot composting for biologically rich compost (Berkeley method)
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Compost extracts and microbial propagation via compost teas
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Compost and liquid analysis using microscopy (1-day and 4-day courses)
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A 3-day Precision Organic Nutrition course
The greatest reward is the deeper understanding you’ll gain of the compost you’ve carefully created. Knowing the biology and nutrient dynamics of what you’re adding to your soil — or inoculating your seeds with — is essential for resilient soils and thriving plants. Plant-based compost has an important role to play in regenerative, ethical growing systems, and this competition offers a platform to demonstrate that.
So come and join the fun, learning, and friendly competition by entering the UK’s First Compost Championships. All compost types are welcome — and plant-based compost is strongly encouraged!
Want to enter but need support?
The Vegan Organic Network has funding available to support two entries from VON members.
For more information, email: info@veganorganic.net