After successfully building our compost bins from sustainably sourced, untreated timber, we're a bit worried about them rotting away themselves in a few years time. We've decided that we want to treat them with something, but not your normal wood preserves or stains that have a petrochemical base, contain VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) and other generally nasty chemicals. After scouring the internet, I came across a company called Auro who sell natural paints and wood preserves. You can find their website here.

We've opted for their organic linseed oil to treat the compost bins but there are a range of options including wood preserves and stains, but also interior wall and gloss paints. Auro claim that all their products are made from natural materials that are sustainably sourced, and say that any excess paint can be composted. We just need it to stop raining now for long enough to paint the compost bins...