Feeding the earth: composting and compost in an indigenous garden in Rio de Janeiro

Abstract

This article examines compost as a theoretical concept taken from the practice of composting, which can be used to think about social processes. Compost is presented according to the practice of feeding the earth, by Niara do Sol and her colleagues at the Dja Guata Porã garden, located at the Aldeia Vertical [Vertical Village] in Rio de Janeiro. After introducing the garden and describing the composting processes carried out there, we argue that the theoretical figure of compost indicates a practice of mixing between heterogeneous elements that enables us to understand the plural sociability that exists in this garden space. This concept is also very fruitful for reflecting on relationships that differ from an ideal of purity.