Vermicomposting
is the process by which organic materials are converted into soil conditioners
with the aid of earthworms. The resulting worm castings are rich in
plant nutrients and improve the water holding capacity of the soil.
Vermicomposting
toilets have been advocated as an ideal method to reduce water usage
and a method of organic waste management. Vermicomposting of biosolids
and sewage sludge raises many issues such as it contains high level
of pathogens and heavy metals that can harm the environment and human
beings. The pathogens are mainly of faecal origin while the toxic substances
are usually generated by industry, agriculture and from stormwater
drains.
The
honours research conducted by Ms Ottile Bajsa under the supervision
of Dr Jaya Nair and Dr Kuruvilla Mathew looks into the microbial and
chemical quality of vermicomposted sewage sludge and the compost generated
from the vermicomposting toilet (Vermicom). The research aims at understanding
the pathogen die off and heavy metal reduction during the composting
process. The quality of compost in terms of texture and nutrient value
will also be studied by using different substrates for composting sludge
and faecal matter.
L-R, Dr Jaya Nair & Otti Bajsa, Otti in the sampling
lab, Otti with a Barefoot Engineering Vermicomposting toilet
The
Vermicon Unit is produced by ETC Industry Partner, Derek Hobbs at Barefoot
Engineering. Results from Otti's research will allow us to quantify
the effectiveness of the portable vermicomposting toilet and assist
Barefoot Engineering in gaining Health Dept. approval for the system.
