Decentralized in-vessel composting: an efficient technology for biodegradable solid waste management
Apurav Sharma, Raman Soni, Sanjeev Kumar Soni
Abstract
The increasing generation of biodegradable solid waste has generated significant interest in decentralized in-vessel composting as an alternative to centralized systems. An optimized waste decomposer microbial formulation, comprising Bacillus cereus C1 and Aspergillus niger P-19 selected for their ability to produce multiple carbohydrases, was prepared using a low-cost medium. The capsular preparation of the waste decomposer microbial formulation was inoculated into a sophisticated decentralized in-vessel composter that had already been fed with 40 kg of biodegradable composite kitchen waste. The waste decomposer formulation effectively stabilized the organic materials by releasing a significant amount of enzymes, while the composter provided an optimal environment for rapid composting. The process lasted for 16 days and resulted in the production of high-quality stabilized compost that improved the growth yield of Brassica juncea (mustard), Spinacia oleracea (spinach), and Raphanus sativus (radish). The decentralized mode of management incurred an operational expense of US $0.02 (INR 1.87) per kilogram, effectively eliminating the requirements for labor, transportation, and waste segregation expenses.