Composting is nature’s way of breaking down organic waste. Organisms such as fungi, bacteria, microbes, and earthworms break down the organic materials from the compost into humus. Many people refer to humus as compost, although humus is the correct term for the completely broken down material. Humus fertilizes and improves soil quality and it has the ability to suppress disease. Humus helps the soil to retain moisture and encourages the formation of good soil structure. Another great feature of humus is its capacity to store carbon, which can mitigate causes and effects of climate change.