Comparative study on composting and vermicomposting

Abstract

The aim of this work was to study the effect of the traditional thermophillic composting thatcommonly adopted for treatment of organic wastes or for production of organic/natural fertilizersthat is introduced to a related technique, called vermicomposting (using earthworms to breakdown the organic wastes). These two techniques have their inherent advantages and disadvantages. The integrated approach suggested in this study borrows pertinent attributes from each of these two processes and combines them to enhance the overall process and improve the products qualities. Two approaches investigated in this study are: pre-composting followed byvermicomposting.Eisenia fetida(red wigglers) species of earthworms used in the vermicomposting processes. The results indicate that, a system thatcombines the two processes not only shortens stabilization time, but also improves the productsquality. Combining the two systems resulted in a product that was more stable and consistent(homogenous), had less potential impact on the environment and for compost. Vermicompostingsystem, the product met the pathogen reduction requirements.