Composting and Vermitechnology in Organic Waste Management

The rise in organic waste production is causing disposal challenges worldwide. In many developing countries, farmers often burn the crop residues to manage them properly before preparing the fields instantly for the cultivation of the next crop. Burning crop residues can harm ecosystems and pose health risks due to the release of toxic gases, smoke, and particulates. Furthermore, the burning of crop residue produces greenhouse gases (GHGs) that play a significant role in contributing to climate change and global warming. To tackle these issues, new technologies and innovative approaches are required to establish recycling practices, such as composting and vermicomposting at farmer, business, and community levels. The composting of organic waste is generally considered the best practice to manage organic waste. Composting is the most adequate pre-treatment practice that converts organic wastes into nutrient-rich material through the natural decomposition process. Aerobic composting is a highly effective waste disposal and utilization method. It reduces waste mass and volume, eliminates pathogens, and transforms waste into a safe, stable, and nutrient-rich soil amendment. The produced compost is a commonly used ecofriendly and natural nutrient source beneficial in enhancing soil fertility and promoting crop production. The quality and success of composting are closely tied to the stability of the final product. The application of immature or unstable compost can lead to significant hygiene and phytotoxicity concerns. In vermitechnology the use of earthworms increases the decomposition of waste material, and prevents the generation of unstable and immature compost. The chemical and physical properties of compost typically vary based on factors such as the initial material used, composting conditions, and the extent of decomposition. The rate of organic matter biodecomposition is influenced by several environmental parameters, including temperature, moisture content, pH, aeration, and substrate nature parameters such as C/N ratio, particle size, and nutrient content. Hence, this chapter aims to highlight the advantages of composting and vermitechnology in managing organic waste.