Who knew that my passion for sustainability and recycling organics could turn into a blog, a book deal, and a platform to share a good green message across print, radio and video?
When I completed my Master Composter Certification in 2009, I wondered how I could make the message and practice of composting accessible and desirable for the city’s eco-curious set. Essentially, compost needed rebranding. Too many misconceptions about composting (it’s gross, it’s messy, you have to be a farmer with mountains of manure to do it) scared people away from it, even though it can be an easy, discreet way to process food and lawn scraps at home.
I created The Compostess first as a service, bringing in-home consultations and composting events to individuals, schools and private groups. The tone was light, friendly, funny and lifestyle-driven, emphasizing how composting can fit into all walks of life, any kind of schedule. Media attention led to a book deal, and I wrote, illustrated and published “Compost City: Practical Composting Know-How for Small-Space Living” with Roost Books in spring of 2015.
Now, The Compostess is a blog full of eco fun. In December 2015, I launched a YouTube channel chronicling some of my adventures. I also give lectures, classes, and workshops to private and community groups.
Following are select clips featuring me, my blog and/or “Compost City!”
2016
“100 Ways to Have Your Most Organic Year Ever,” (Rodale’s Organic Life Magazine, Jan/Feb 2016)
2015
“Podcast: Talking Compost and Compost City with Juice Guru Radio” (Juice Guru Radio, 11/27/15)
“Composting: The Whys and Hows” (SparkleKitchen.com, 11/12/15)
“Compost City: An Interview with Rebecca Louie, The Compostess” (Earth911.com, 11/10/15)
“How to Host a Pumpkin Smash (and Compost Jack O Lanterns)” (TreeHugger.com, 10/27/15)
“I Just Started Composting in My Apartment and You Can Too,” (TreeHugger.com, 8/13/15)
“Reviews: Compost City: Practical Composting Know-How for Small-Space Living” (Sanctuary Magazine, Issue 32)
“Review: Compost City” (StyleDementia.com, 6/5/15)
“Video: Trevose Day School, Neshaminy Montessori Students Compost” (Bucks County Courier Times, 5/27/15)
“Dancing in the Dirt: Trevose Day School Launches Sustainability Curriculum” (The Midweek Wire, 5/26/15)
“Small-Scale Composting for Urban and Suburbanites” (The Denver Post, 5/16/15)
“Composting in New York City is Not as Challenging as You Think and its Getting Easier” (EdibleManhattan.com, 11/4/15)
2013-2014
“How to Make Compost Using Worms” (Wired UK, 11/13/14)
“Your Compost Will Not Attract Vermin, Take Over Your Apartment, Or Produce Toxic Fumes” (Smithsonian Magazine, 6/20/2014)
“Can of Worms: Want to Keep Your Food Scraps Out Of Landfills? Call The Compostess” (Edible Manhattan, 5/5/13)