Where’s harm in Stanwood composter going over tonnage limit?

I do not claim to be an expert on composting. The state has long promoted recycling, so why is a limit put on how much compostable material can be processed? (“Stanwood composter questioned on whether tonnage went over the limit,” The Herald, Dec. 13.)

I assume that the excess material would be put in landfills instead. Is that better for society and the environment? What is the upside to limiting the amount that they can process and letting the rest rot in the landfill? What is the downside of allowing them to recycle as much as is available?

Charles M. Barnett

Lynnwood